A PROMISING junior footballer was fighting for his life in hospital last night after he was involved in a crash on the A923 Coupar Angus to Dundee road on Sunday.

Chris Turner (22), who was formerly on the books of Dundee FC, was involved in the accident shortly after 7pm when two cars collided outside Balshando Farm, near the Lundie junction.

Mr Turner, who lives in Blairgowrie, has spent the past two seasons playing in defence for Dundee junior side North End and was preparing to begin pre-season training with the club this week.

Tayside Fire and Rescue had to cut Mr Turner free from his car before he was rushed to Ninewells Hospital.

Another man managed to escape from his car before emergency services arrived.

Last night, Mr Turner was understood to be on a life-support machine, with doctors monitoring his condition over the next 24 hours.

Shocked members at North End Social Club in Fairmuir Street said their thoughts and prayers were with Mr Turner and his family.

North End secretary John Reilly described Mr Turner as a popular player in the dressing room and extended his best wishes on behalf of everyone at the club.

He said, “One of the players heard the news today and contacted the club.

“The manager, the committee and all the players are very sorry to hear that Chris was involved in the crash.

“Our thoughts are with him.”

Mr Turner’s family did not wish to comment.