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    Home AFL News Carlton star Sam Walsh to miss start of 2023 season

    Carlton star Sam Walsh to miss start of 2023 season

    The Blues have confirmed a major injury blow.

    Mitch Keating
    13605
    MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 25: Sam Walsh of the Blues looks dejected after a loss during the 2021 AFL Round 02 match between the Carlton Blues and the Collingwood Magpies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 25, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

    Carlton star Sam Walsh will miss the start of the 2023 season due to an ongoing back issue that has now required surgery.

    The Blues confirmed on Friday that Walsh has undergone a micro-discectomy procedure to aid his rehabilitation ahead of the new year.

    “Throughout the last few months our number one priority has been for Sam's wellbeing in managing this issue, which is why we explored every possible conservative treatment option," Carlton football boss Brad Lloyd said in a club statement.

    “Following this extensive process, it was clear that given all alternative treatments had not progressed his recovery, surgery was the required option to correct the issue.

    “Sam is now recovering after undergoing surgery last night and will commence his rehabilitation in the New Year.

    “While Sam's professionalism and resilience is well-known, we will absolutely give Sam all the time he needs to make a full recovery before he returns to the side during the season.

    “Due to the long-term nature of this rehabilitation, it isn't possible to confirm a set date for his return right now. Once the opening month of the season has been completed though, we expect to be able to provide more clarity on his expected return to play.”

    MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 18: Sam Walsh of the Blues in action ahead of Shai Bolton of the Tigers during the 2021 AFL Round 01 match between the Richmond Tigers and the Carlton Blues at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 18, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

    Walsh missed the Blues' final match of the home and away season as a late withdrawal with the back issue, however the same ailment looks set to see the young midfielder miss the start of next season following the operation.

    The news comes after Carlton detailed they have looked to address their concerning injury trends from this year.

    Carlton's 2023 campaign will begin on March 16 at the MCG against Richmond.