BADLY injured Town star Anthony Pilkington was waking up in his own bed today for the first time since suffering horrific leg injuries.

The 22-year-old ace suffered a broken fibula and a dislocated left ankle in Tuesday night’s home victory against Rochdale.

He underwent surgery in a Manchester hospital on Thursday and doctors allowed him to be taken back across the Pennines and home yesterday.

A Town spokesman said: “The surgery went well and Anthony is now starting what will be a long recovery process.

“He’s upbeat in himself, but is in pain.’’

Pilkington has been inundated with messages of support and goodwill from fans.

He has been Town’s star performer this season, but he will now play no further part in it on the pitch after he was hurt 13 minutes into the second half.

The operation was carried out by top surgeon Ashok Paul who has treated many soccer stars.