Melbourne rebound defender Christian Salem is currently training on a modified program as he deals with an ongoing thyroid issue.
The 27-year-old has faced glandular problems in previous seasons, which can impact someone's heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight. This history helped the club detect the issue quickly.
He will work with the club's medical team and a specialist in his recovery.
In a club statement, Melbourne's Head of Medical Dr Laura Lallanec said that Salem is "currently undergoing treatment for an illness resulted to his thyroid gland.”
“Christian has had a similar issue in the past where his thyroid becomes overactive," she said.
“He will continue to be monitored closely by his specialist and reintegrate into training as his thyroid levels stabilise.”
AFL fans will be wishing Salem a speedy recovery while the Melbourne faithful will hope to see the backman participating in match simulations as soon as possible.
Melbourne begin their 2023 campaign on Saturday, March 18 with a Round 1 match against the Western Bulldogs at the MCG.
