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Lens' Benjamin Bourigeaud requires hand surgery after attack by own fans

Lens midfielder Benjamin Bourigeaud requires surgery on a hand injury suffered when he was attacked by fans of his own team.

Bourigeaud, 21, was out in nearby Arras with former teammate Baptiste Guillaume when the latter was confronted by Lens fans angered by his transfer to rivals Lille.

Bourigeaud attempted to defend his close friend and suffered a fracture to his hand. Coach Antoine Kombouare revealed details of the incident after Bourigeaud missed Le Sang Et Or's goalless preseason friendly against Tubize on Tuesday evening.

"Benjamin Bourigeaud has a hand injury," Kombouare told reporters in France. "He has a fracture and will need a small operation.

"He had problems with some people in Arras when he was walking with Baptiste Guillaume. They were ambushed.

"Six people attacked Baptiste because he now plays for Lille. Benjamin tried to defend him.

"They know that these days, when you go out, you can be subject to provocation from people who are jealous. You must not respond to provocation.

"If you cannot manage that, you must not go out."

Bourigeaud posted a message on Twitter aimed at Lens fans in general, reassuring them that his injuries are not severe.

"A message to all Lens supporters," he wrote. "All is well, do not worry, I will be back very soon."