GWS has confirmed that veteran Call Ward has torn his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in Saturday's clash against Richmond.

Ward came from the ground early in the first term after attempting to corral Tiger youngster Hugo Ralphsmith.

The 35-year-old was seen immediately clutching at his right knee, and was assisted from the ground.

The Giants provided an update.

"GIANTS midfielder Callan Ward met with a surgeon today in Melbourne following the knee injury he sustained in the first quarter of Saturday's win over the Tigers," the statement said.

"Scans ordered by the surgeon have confirmed the initial and clinical assessment of a torn ACL.

"Ward will undergo surgery later this month once the swelling has gone down.

"At this stage, Ward has not made any decisions regarding his playing future.

"The club will provide further updates in due course."

In a selfless and team-first attempt to will his side over the line, Ward addressed the GWS players at three-quarter time when the club was 28 points down.

Long-time teammates Lachie Whitfield and Josh Kelly provided an insight into Ward's stirring speech that inspired a damning response, with the Giants claiming the victory.