AFL Rd 3 - Carlton v Fremantle

Carlton will be without key pair Harry McKay and Liam Jones for the final two games of the season.

Carlton today reported that scans on McKay's right shoulder have confirmed a high-grade injury to his AC joint which will require surgery.

An official club statement said that during Carlton's loss to Gold Coast last week, the 23-year-old injured his shoulder in a marking contest and will undergo his surgery on Thursday.

McKay, who currently leads in the Coleman Medal race with 58 goals, had previously missed only one game this season. McKay may yet hang onto the medal, given he currently holds a ten-goal lead over Josh Bruce of the Western Bulldogs and the now suspended Taylor Walker of the Adelaide Crows.

There is a logjam behind the duo with Tom Hawkins and Jack Riewoldt both on 47 goals, however, it will take two excellent performances for anyone to catch McKay, who has been among the Blues' best this season.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 15: Jack Riewoldt of the Tigers celebrates after scoring a goal during the round five AFL match between the St Kilda Saints and the Richmond Tigers at Marvel Stadium on April 15, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Jones reported knee soreness in days following the Gold Coast game, with scans revealing an injured patella.

Like McKay, Jones had managed 19 games prior to the setback, playing some of his best footy this season.

The club believes both players will be back available in time for pre-season and will make a full recovery.