Ex-Man Utd star rushed to hospital after sustaining injury filming TV advert

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Former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich faces surgery after rupturing his quadricep while saving a penalty. The ex-Australia international was participating in a celebrity penalty shootout during a promotional event in the build-up to the World Cup.

Bosnich was between the sticks when he faced a spot-kick from former AFL chief Gillon McLachlan. Despite pulling off the save, he immediately cried out in agony as he crumpled to the ground.

Some onlookers initially suspected it was a prank, with the event presenter Archie Thompson remarking: "I hope it is a stitch up, but if it is, man, his acting is incredible."

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Bosnich managed to get to his feet and hobble gingerly to the sidelines before taking a seat. After having the injury iced at the venue, he was subsequently taken to hospital.

Pictures show him still managing a smile while holding ice against the stricken leg. The 54-year-old has since confirmed to Channel Nine that an operation will be necessary to fix the injury.

The former shot-stopper is due to appear as a pundit for Australia 's coverage of this summer's World Cup in North America. Australia have qualified for the tournament, where they will face Turkey, the USA and Paraguay in the group stages.

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Bosnich spent the majority of his playing days in the Premier League , arriving at United from Sydney United as a youngster. He racked up a total of 38 appearances for the Reds, recording 15 clean sheets - though only three outings came during his initial stint in Manchester.

He returned to Sydney United in 1991, before switching to Aston Villa just six months afterwards. He rejoined United in 1999, remaining at Old Trafford until 2001. He also had a two-year spell with Chelsea between 2001 and 2003. His second period with United means he was part of the 1999/2000 Premier League-winning squad.