The Sheffield United midfielder fractured a metatarsal bone during December's South Yorkshire derby with Barnsley and has been pushing himself through the pain barrier ever since.

But the full extent of the problem only became known when he broke down in agony following last weekend's game against Sheffield Wednesday.

Montgomery, expected to be miss United's next five games, including tomorrow's FA Cup fourth round tie with Manchester City, will visit a specialist on Monday to devise a recovery programme.

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United boss Bryan Robson cited the former Scotland under-21 international's record this term - he has made 23 appearances despite having pins inserted in a troublesome shoulder, undergoing an operation to repair a double hernia and developing pleurisy - as conclusive proof that criticism of United's courage and commitment is wide of the mark.

Montgomery said: "I've been in absolute agony and I'm gutted because it's been one thing after another since the summer. I didn't want to pull out because I didn't want to look like I was just dropping out. "I'm devastated. I'm going to have to rest it now but I want to be a part of the team that turns our season around."

Labelling Montgomery "The Bionic Man", Robson publicly expressed support for his players and insisted comments he made following the defeat by Wednesday when he said it had been a "mistake" to award some squad members new contracts had been taken out of context.

But Robson did admit that, barring exceptional circumstances, any further incomings this month were likely to be either loans or free transfers.

He also confirmed that Luton have rejected an offer for their highly-rated goalkeeper Dean Brill.

"I always support my players," he said. "They work hard in training and they're a cracking bunch. Anyone who says they don't have passion need only look at Monty."

Leigh Bromby echoed Robson's sentiments. "We owe the fans one," he said. "The pressure is off a bit in the cup and so that should enable us to play with a bit more freedom because we'll be the underdogs.

Keeper Paul Gerrard has joined Blackpool on loan for the rest of the season.

Chris Morgan and Gary Naysmith are now fit after injury.

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