Carlton star Sam Docherty has suffered a ruptured ACL at training on Wednesday in a huge blow for the 24-year-old and the Blues' 2018 season.
The club has confirmed Docherty will undergo traditional knee reconstruction surgery which will see him miss the next 12 months of football.
“As we commence our pre-season campaign, the news of Sam’s injury is incredibly disappointing for everyone but foremost for Sam,” Head of Football Andrew McKay said.
“Sam is a total professional and a resilient young man and we know he will face his rehabilitation process with the utmost dedication.
“As a terrific young leader at our club, Sam will continue to work with the leadership group and assist in the development of our young players both on and off the field.
“While we are incredibly disappointed by the long-term nature of Sam’s injury, it provides an opportunity for our young defenders to continue to train hard over the pre-season to solidify their spot in the backline in Sam’s absence in 2018.”
