Essendon have confirmed they will be without Mason Redman for Sunday's clash against Brisbane at the Gabba as COVID withdrawals hit both teams.
The Bombers defender has entered the AFL's health and safety protocols, replaced in the selected 22 by Jake Kelly. Redman joins the injured Darcy Parish on the out list for the Bombers.
The Lions have been dealt a fair blow by the virus, forced to withdraw at least four players for the Sunday afternoon clash.
Harris Andrews, Daniel McStay, Keidean Coleman and Callum Ah Chee were all confirmed outs due to health and safety protocols, with young gun Noah Answerth the latest addition on Saturday.
Late change alert.
Mason Redman (health & safety protocols) is out of tomorrow’s side. Jake Kelly comes in. pic.twitter.com/ukKEyW3xlN
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) July 9, 2022
Answerth has been replaced in the side by James Madden, with Connor McFadyen joining the team as an emergency.
Brisbane will also be without veterans Daniel Rich and Dayne Zorko, both sidelined with hamstring injuries, for the clash against the 16th placed Bombers.
Eric Hipwood is free to play after overturning his suspension at the AFL tribunal, while young defender Carter Michael will make his debut for the Lions after his selection in the 2020 NAB AFL Rookie Draft.
The match between Brisbane and Essendon is scheduled to get underway at 1:10pm (AEST) on Sunday, July 10.
