St Kilda defender Nick Coffield will miss the entire 2022 season after scans confirmed the club’s fears of a suspected ACL tear.
The 22-year-old suffered the injury in his right knee during match simulation at Mars Stadium in Ballarat on Friday
Saints Chief Operating Officer Simon Lethlean says Coffield has the support of the club as he enters rehabilitation.
“Nick had been doing everything right this pre-season and we were really looking forward to seeing what he could achieve this year,” Lethlean said via a statement.
“This is a big blow to Nick, but we know he’ll be doing everything he can to get back out there as soon as possible.
“While this is a significant setback, Nick has the full support of the entire club as he attacks his rehabilitation.”
The injury is a cruel blow for the former top 10 draft pick who had just passed the 50-game barrier in 2021.
He’ll next play competitive football in 2023 if his rehabilitation goes to plan.