BBC North of England Correspondent John Thorne: Fears that Gordon Watson might not play again

The High Court, sitting in Leeds, decided that Huddersfield Town defender Kevin Gray was liable for a sliding tackle which put Bradford City striker Gordon Watson out of action for 18 months.

Watson, 27, who suffered a double fracture, is now free to pursue a claim for damages against the Huddersfield defender.

The court rejected Gray's claim that the injury was purely accidental.

Gordon Watson: Five operations

Mr Justice Hooper ruled against Bradford City, who were also suing Gray and Huddersfield Town for recklessness over the loss of Watson's services during the 18 months the injury kept him out of the game.

The judge said he would give his full reasons to the court on Thursday. Damages will be decided next year.

Gordon Watson talks to BBC Radio 5 Live

The trial, which only ruled on liability, heard from television pundit Jimmy Hill, who said it was one of the worst tackles he had ever seen.

Video footage of the West Yorkshire derby on 1 February 1997 was screened as evidence in the trial.

Kevin Gray: Said he was "totally focused on the ball"

A commentator on the video described the incident as a "diabolical challenge" by Gray.

The tackle happened during Watson's third game for Bradford City after he joined them from Southampton for a then record club fee of £575,000.

Andrew Clarke QC, for the plaintiff, said the tackle left Watson unable to play professional football for the remainder of the season and the entire 1997-98 campaign.

'Significant losses'

Mr Clarke said Watson had now recovered sufficiently to play first team football but has yet to command a regular place or to complete 90 minutes in a first class match.

Surgeons inserted a 7in metal plate into Gordon Watson's leg

Mr Clarke said Watson and Bradford City had suffered significant losses.

Watson's included his loss of earnings and performance bonuses, and of his career prospects.