GWS have suffered a blow with 19-year-old Paul Ahearn ruled out for the season after suffering an ACL injury at training.

Ahearn was picked at No.7 in the 2014 National Draft and displayed some impressive form at NEAFL level in 2015, however, he failed to break into the senior side.

“We’ve got Paul’s long-term welfare as our first thought, so we’ll now look to determine the best course of action to ensure he can return stronger than ever,” Giants head of athletic performance David Joyce told the club website.

He will meet with a specialist this week.