Scans have confirmed Sydney defender Alex Johnson will require a sixth knee reconstruction while hamstrung teammate Nick Smith will miss the rest of the AFL season.
Johnson, who ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his ‘good’ knee for the first time, is yet to decide whether he will attempt yet another comeback.
The 26-year-old’s left ACL has already been the subject of five reconstructions and serious infections that derailed his career.
Johnson, who waited 2136 days after the 2012 grand final to make his AFL return in round 20 this season, and the club will consult knee specialists next week before mapping out a plan.
“It’s devastating news,” Swans football manger Tom Harley said.
“Clearly this is a really disappointing outcome.
“Alex has worked so hard over the past six years to get back to playing football and for this to happen in his second game back is just shattering for him and for us.
“Alex has shown unbelievable resilience and determination over his career and will continue to be an inspiration to his teammates and the wider AFL community.”
Meanwhile, veteran Smith will spend the next six weeks on the sidelines because of a hamstring tendon injury.
It means the small defender will miss the rest of the year.
In better news for the Swans, Heath Grundy could return against GWS in Saturday’s clash at Spotless Stadium.
Grundy has taken a break from playing during the past fortnight because of mental health issues.
“I’d expect him to be in the selection discussion come later this week,” Harley said.
“Still a bit early to say exactly what this week looks like for Heath.
“But importantly he’s taken the fortnight to really invest in his wellbeing and we’ve supported him through that.”