Essendon youngster grounded by injury

An Essendon defender is set to be sidelined in the early part of the season due to a syndesmosis injury.

Second-year player Angus Clarke suffered the injury during a routine training drill on Wednesday, with a return-to-play timeline to be provided in due course.

“We are all feeling for 'Clarkey' after this setback on the eve of the season,” AFL General Manager Dan McPherson said.

“He has put in a mountain of work in preparation for the season, so to have this happen so close to the start line is really disappointing for him. He's a tough kid though - we know he'll bounce back quickly.”

Isaac Kako is one to three weeks away from a return from his hamstring injury, while Sullivan Robey is a week away from selection as he returns to full training.

Meanwhile, it is better news for Melbourne, with Bayley Fritsch remaining a chance for Round 1.

He suffered a dog bite earlier in the week and had surgery to wash out an infection.

Brody Mihocek is also in line to play Round 1 after missing the AAMI Community Series game with concussion, while Jai Culley remains a chance to play despite an arm fracture.

Luker Kentfield is six weeks away with an MCL injury sustained in Friday's clash with Richmond.