Melbourne Demons Face Setback as Captain Max Gawn Injured

Melbourne Demons will be without their captain Max Gawn for Saturday's clash with Essendon at the MCG due to an ankle injury. Gawn hurt his ankle during the win over West Coast on Sunday, and scans have revealed the injury is worse than expected. He is expected to miss up to three weeks.

Injury Details and Recovery

“Scans show that Max has sustained a chip to the base of his right fibula,” said Demons football boss Alan Richardson. “While this is disappointing news for Max, fortunately he won't require surgery. Max is the ultimate professional and leader, and we know he'll attack his rehab and continue to play a pivotal role in our group over the next few weeks, albeit from the sidelines.”

Gawn was seen in a moon boot and on crutches on Monday. "It's pretty sore, I must admit. I woke up very sore and played the second half in a bit of distress," Gawn said. "At this stage, I'm thinking I'll miss some time, but I'm always optimistic. I'm hoping it's a short-term thing."

Impact on the Team

Gawn's absence is a significant blow for Simon Goodwin's side, especially with Bombers ruck Sam Draper in good form. The Demons are just outside the top eight and need to keep winning to secure a finals spot in 2024.

Former Brisbane ruck Tom Fullarton, a carry-over emergency on Sunday, is the likely replacement for Gawn. Jacob van Rooyen, who assisted in the ruck and scored four goals against West Coast, could also step up. Other potential replacements include Josh Schache and Shane McAdam, who have performed well in the VFL, and untried youngster Matthew Jefferson, who scored three goals last weekend.

Team's Performance and Future Prospects

First-year star Caleb Windsor had his best game for the club, and Trent Rivers' move to the midfield in Christian Petracca's absence has helped the team find its "identity."

"These are the guys that we've invested a fair bit of time into, and our footy club's evolving on the back of them," said Goodwin. "We're finding our identity again and the way we want to play, and our younger players are starting to drive it forward. That's exciting for us, and we've still got enormous growth in us. If we stick to the way we're playing now, we'll keep building as the year goes on."

The Demons hope to continue their winning ways and secure a spot in the finals despite Gawn's temporary absence.