All-Australian midfielder Hugh McCluggage is set to be sidelined for up to five weeks in a further blow to struggling Brisbane’s hopes of securing a hat-trick of AFL premierships.
McCluggage injured his calf at training on Thursday and wasn’t named in Brisbane’s team for Saturday’s QClash battle against the Gold Coast Suns at People First Stadium.
The Lions released a statement on Friday, revealing the extent of the damage of McCluggage’s left calf injury, which was described as a “strain”.
“McCluggage was sent for scans on Thursday, following the team’s main training session, which confirmed the injury,” the Lions statement said.
“The club expects McCluggage to miss approximately four to five weeks.”
It’s not the first time the Brisbane co-captain has had a calf problem this season, with the injury issues perhaps having contributed to his dip in form.
His latest injury also adds to Brisbane’s casualty list that already includes Dayne Zorko (quad), Keidean Coleman (hamstring), Ryan Lester (calf), Linc McCarthy (hamstring), Eric Hipwood (knee), Oscar Allen (foot), Daniel Annable (shoulder), Jack Payne (knee) and Tom Doedee (calf).
The injury woes haven’t helped a Lions side hoping to avoid a fourth successive loss on Saturday.
“We’re trying to build our confidence back up a bit – that’s been down,” Brisbane coach Chris Fagan said.
“We’re really trying to keep everything simple and players having a narrow focus on their strengths, and us playing with a little bit more freedom.
“Simplicity gives you energy. If you try to over-complicate things, it takes energy away.”
Despite Fagan’s concerns, Lions forward-turned-defender Ty Gallop said “energy” remained high among Brisbane’s playing group.
“Obviously we’ve had a bit of a rough trot the last couple of weeks, but (on Saturday) getting us on the road again will get us up and about,” Gallop said.
“The energy is good among the group. (The QClash) is a high-stakes game. (It’s) the only two teams in Queensland.
“You know it’s going to be on early, so you just give it everything you’ve got.”
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