The Western Bulldogs have been dealt yet another big blow with key defender Liam Jones set to miss the start of the 2025 season.
Watch every match of the 2025 AAMI Community Series Live & ad-break free during play, exclusive to FOX FOOTY, available on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer.
Jones suffered a high-grade hamstring strain during match simulation on the Sunshine Coast, which will delay the start of his campaign.
Jones will also miss the Indigenous All Stars match set to take place on February 15.
CHANCES ARE YOU’RE ABOUT TO LOSE. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
The 33-year-old is expected to return to full training in 8-10 weeks.
The Western Bulldogs look likely to head into their round one clash against North Melbourne without a whopping five key players from their elimination final loss to Hawthorn last year.
Caleb Daniel (North Melbourne) and Jack Macrae (St Kilda) departed the club in search of greater senior opportunities, Jones is out with a hamstring, while star midfielder Adam Treloar is also set for a lengthy stint on the sidelines with a calf problem.
Massive Bulldogs injury blow | 00:22
Doubts also continue to swirl around key forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s availability as he deals with some personal issues, while veteran defender Jason Johannisen (hamstring) and utility Anthony Scott (knee) are also facing delayed starts to the season.
Jones’ absence could create a spot for youngster Jedd Busslinger to make his AFL debut, or for swingman Buku Khamis to feature more prominently in Luke Beveridge’s side.
Port declare ‘no Houston, no problem’ | 02:00
FRESH INJURY BLOW FOR DON
Essendon forward Matt Guelfi will miss the early stages of the 2025 season after suffering a fresh hamstring injury.
Guelfi hurt his hamstring prior to Christmas and had been progressing well, but this latest setback means the small forward will undergo surgery next week and be sidelined for 10-12 weeks.
“‘Guelf’ was progressing well in the rehab of the injury he sustained pre-Christmas, so it’s really disappointing to see him suffer another setback,” Bombers footy manager Daniel McPherson said.
Bulldogs defender sidelined for months | 00:37
“He’d spent part of his off-season visiting soft-tissue specialists in the USA, and together with our medical team was implementing what he’d learned overseas into his pre-season program.
“It’s frustrating that he hasn’t been able to get a clean run at it to this point.
“While surgery will keep him sidelined for the next few months, we’re confident we’ll get to see ‘Guelf’ back out there playing plenty of strong footy for us this season.”
Discussion about this post