Western Bulldogs Face Multiple Defensive Injuries
Last updated on July 8, 2024 at 17:24 pm
Posted on July 8, 2024 at 18:24 pm
The Western Bulldogs could be without veteran defender Liam Jones for up to a month due to a knee injury. Jones missed the game against Port Adelaide last weekend because of soreness, and scans revealed damage to his medial ligament.
Liam Jones' Injury
Jones was injured in the last few minutes of the Round 16 game against North Melbourne. He landed heavily during an aerial contest, damaging the medial ligament in his knee.
“In the last few minutes of the Round 16 game against North, Liam Jones was involved in an aerial contest and landed heavily,” said Chris Bell, the Bulldogs' medical boss. “Scans confirmed a moderate grade ligament injury. We will assess how fast the ligament heals over the next 10 days to determine his return timeline.”
Possible Returns and New Injuries
The loss of Jones might be eased by the potential return of Alex Keath from a hamstring injury. Keath has increased his training and could play against Carlton. Small forward Cody Weightman, who missed the game against Port Adelaide due to groin soreness, is also in the selection mix for Round 18.
“Alex Keath completed a game-like training session and plans to fully train this week,” Bell said. “If he gets through, he will be considered for selection. Cody Weightman had some persisting groin soreness, so we didn't risk him last weekend. We will ensure he is 100% fit before considering his return.”
Concussion Protocols and Other Injuries
Key players Aaron Naughton and James O'Donnell have entered concussion protocols and will miss the upcoming match against Carlton. Defender Jason Johannisen's return from a calf injury has been delayed, ruling him out for up to seven weeks.
“Jason Johannisen was on track to return this week but suffered recurrent calf tightness,” Bell said. “We will work on a plan to get him back towards the end of the season.”
Additionally, James Harmes and Kelsey Rypstra are dealing with hamstring injuries that will keep them out for up to a month. Young tall Jordan Croft is six to eight weeks away from returning from a thigh injury.
