Carlton forward Sam Philp is set to spend at least a month on the sidelines after injuring his ribs last Thursday afternoon during a VFL practice match against Richmond.
Philp, a first-round selection in 2019 and still just 20 years of age, played two games in 2020 before missing the entire 2021 season due to an unrelenting groin issue.
Reporter Sam Edmund detailed Philp's situation on SEN Breakfast.
"Jack Martin needs to be replaced of course and among the most likely candidate was Sam Philp who was Pick 20 in 2019 and was injured all of last year," Edmund said.
"I'm told he busted his ribs in a VFL practice match, so he's going to miss a few weeks, you can put a line through him."
Philp, who slotted three goals before exiting Thursday's contest, put himself in the frame for selection this week due to Martin's absence.
However, now ruled out, COVID-stricken senior coach Michael Voss will have to look elsewhere to replace the 27-year-old Martin, who will also miss due to COVID.
2021 draftee Jesse Motlop may find himself in line for an early-season debut, while ex-Cat Lachie Fogarty, untried defender Brodie Kemp and veteran Jack Newnes could also push to play this week.
The Blues will look to continue their dream start to the season against the Bulldogs on Thursday night at Marvel Stadium.
