Carlton co-vice captain Jacob Weitering has suffered another injury after the 28-year-old strained his calf on Thursday.
Having already missed the previous three matches with a calf injury, this further strain will see Weitering miss the next three or four matches at least.
Weitering's injury troubles come at an interesting point in time for the tough and talented key defender.
He has been the subject of trade speculation all season, and while he seems keen to stay at Carlton, clubs such as North Melbourne are circling the All-Australian back with strong offers.
The emergence of gun first-year defender Harry Dean, who has covered for Weitering beautifully and is a genuine shot at this year's Rising Star Award, has meant the Blues could look to put Weitering on ice for the rest of the season if his calf issues persist.
Weitering has been a rock down back for Carlton since he arrived at the club with the number one draft pick in 2015. Earning his maiden All-Australian blazer in 2024 and winning the best-and-fairest award in 2020 and 2023.
He was a test to return for this weekend's clash with West Coast at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, but a second calf injury is a major blow for the Blues.
The club is currently riding a massive wave of momentum under interim coach Josh Fraser and has won its past five matches on the trot.
Carlton is chasing a wildcard spot and sits only one win away from 10th placed North Melbourne.
However, if Weitering's injury problems continue, the club's strong run could struggle to maintain its current rage.
