Gold Coast Suns star midfielder Gary Ablett has been ruled out of this weekend’s clash against former club Geelong following a further setback to his injured shoulder.
SEE ALSO:
Brisbane Lions legend Jonathan Brown slams Etihad Stadium following Michael Close injury
Melbourne Demons star Jack Trengove forced out of 2015 AFL season
AFL: Ten players to watch in 2015, including Hawthorn & Sydney Swans stars
Ablett missed the latter stages of the 2014 season after dislocating his shoulder in round 16 and looked a shadow of himself in the Suns’ 26-point loss to Melbourne in round one.
He improved with 23 disposals in his side’s 28-point loss to St Kilda on Saturday but will not line-up against the Cats this weekend.
Suns general football manager Marcus Ashcroft confirmed Ablett would miss the round three trip to Simonds Stadium.
“When assessing Gary’s shoulder on Monday, it was apparent that his range of movement had been restricted and as a result we have made the decision that he will miss Sunday’s game against Geelong,” Ashcroft said in a club statement.
Ashcroft said he injury was likely to worsen if Ablett continued to play.
“What we do know is that he strengthened his shoulder considerably in the lead up to round one,” he said.
“After a couple of games, where his shoulder has been tested in match conditions, Gary’s shoulder has been stirred up, effecting his movement and strength.
“Our advice is that with some rest and the ability to add more strength, Gary should return in a better state to play.”
Ashcroft said the club had kept a close eye on Ablett over the past two weeks but would not put a timeframe on his return.
“Gary and the club’s medical staff have reviewed Gary’s shoulder on an on-going basis following his surgery in July last year,” Ashcroft said.
“Prior to round one, our medical staff were satisfied with the range of movement Gary had in his left shoulder and as a result Gary was available for selection and personally he was determined to play.”
Gold Coast have endured a poor start to the season with losses against 2014 strugglers Melbourne and St Kilda.
The Suns head into clash against Geelong as the clear underdogs, with the task being made even harder with the loss of the side’s influential skipper.
The latest setback has robbed Ablett of another clash against his former side, with whom he won two premierships with.
COMMENTS