Swansea City defender Alan Tate has been ruled out for up to six months after breaking his leg in what his club have described as a “bizarre golfing accident”.

Tate was a passenger in a golf buggy at Gower Golf Club near Swansea yesterday when the buggy “lost control”, Swansea said. No other players were involved in the incident.

The 28-year-old former Man. United trainee had his leg trapped between the buggy and a tree, manager Brendan Rodgers said.

Tate, described as a “very good golfer” by Rodgers, was diagnosed with a broken tibia of his left leg after being taken to Morriston Hospital by ambulance.

“We’re really, really gutted for him and he’s obviously very disappointed,” Rodgers said.

“It was probably as low as I’ve heard him. He’s a very upbeat character so for him to be injured will be difficult because I’ve never known him miss one day’s training.

“To be out for up to six months with what’s happened will be absolutely devastating.”

Tate’s injury means Rodgers will likely to have to make a move for a replacement before the transfer window closes on Wednesday.

“We’ve actually only got two fully fit centre-halves,” Rodgers added.

Tate is one of only three current Swansea players who have played in all four divisions with the club.

He played in the 3-2 win over Hull which saved the Welsh club from relegation from the Football League in 2003.

Tate is in his 10th season with the Swans and has played more than 300 games for the club.

A statement on the club’s offical website, www.swanseacity.net, read: “Swansea City have been dealt a bitter blow with news that defender Alan Tate has broken his leg in a bizarre golfing accident.

“The club’s vice-captain was a passenger in a golf buggy that lost control at a local golf club this afternoon.

“Tate was taken to Morriston Hospital by ambulance where he was diagnosed with a fractured tibia of his left leg.”