A star Essendon midfielder is reportedly in serious doubt to face Hawthorn in Round 1 next weekend.
Meanwhile, a pair of Giants are under injury clouds, with one succumbing to a freak ailment that has turned heads.
Stay abreast of the latest injury developments with Casualty Ward.
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STAR BOMBER TO EXPECTED MISS OPENER
Darcy Parish is considered in serious doubt to miss Essendon’s season-opener against the Hawks after reportedly succumbing to a minor hamstring concern against Geelong in last weekend’s practice match.
While the Bombers have not officially put a line through their prolific onballer, Nine reporter Tom Morris says Parish “will not play” against the Hawks next Saturday at the MCG.
Morris described the supposed strain as “small”, but as we’ve come to understand, any soft-tissue complaint will be treated with the utmost precaution by clubs.
A Parish-shaped hole in Essendon’s midfield could result in larger engine-room roles for the likes of Jye Caldwell and youngster Elijah Tsatas, as well as potentially open the door of opportunity to Ben Hobbs, who waits on the fringes.
GIANT’S FREAK INJURY RAISES EYEBROWS
Midfielder Finn Callaghan, who is edging closer to a return to play from a pre-season shoulder complaint, has now reportedly fallen victim to an improbable new injury after being spotted on crutches.
The 20-year-old was seemingly ready to make a Round 1 return against North Melbourne before he “stepped on a nail” while visiting the beach earlier in the day, according to Seven reporter Mitch Cleary.
Callaghan’s fresh concern isn’t considered overly serious, but he will be monitored in the days leading up to GWS’ clash with the Kangaroos at ENGIE Stadium next Saturday.
GWS VETERAN SET FOR ‘QUITE A FEW WEEKS’ OUT AS INJURY SOURS WIN
Seasoned Giants midfielder Callan Ward is expected to spend a stint on the sidelines after being subbed out of Saturday night’s win over Collingwood with a suspected shoulder injury.
Ward, 33, came from the ENGIE Stadium turf in the second term with an evident shoulder concern, with coach Adam Kingsley at half-time confirming the midfielder’s setback.
“AC joint popped out. He’s out of the game and probably will miss quite a few weeks,” Kingsley said.
Added Nine journalist Damian Barrett on the Sunday Footy Show: “The early diagnosis is about a month, it could be longer.”
While Ward’s absence wasn’t costly to the Giants’ cause on Saturday — sub Toby McMullin was impressive upon his injection into the game — his anticipated recovery time will put a dent in the depth of Kingsley’s midfield.
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