Carlton have revealed ruckman Alex Mirkov will not play again this year following the discovery of a leaking aortic valve in his heart.
Mirkov, who is yet to feature at AFL level for the Blues, recently recorded shortness of breath, with the club investigating the matter further with a cardiologist.
The health scare, which hindered Mirkov's training and playing abilities, has forced the 23-year-old to require cardiothoracic surgery, which will take place in the coming days.
Carlton confirmed on Friday afternoon that Mirkov would be sidelined for the remainder of the 2023 season.
โOur medical staff have been working closely with cardiologists and specialists to ensure we gather all the information regarding Alex's condition and the best path forward to allow him to return to full function,โ Blues football boss Brad Lloyd said in a club statement.
โThat extensive consultation has resulted in Alex needing surgery to correct the medical issue. It is expected he will be able to make a full recovery and be able to integrate back into the program for pre-season training later this year.
โAlex is a great person who is loved by our group, it is important to our club that we do everything we can to support Alex and his family during this period and we will be continuing doing so right throughout his recovery.โ
Mirkov, a 210cm ruckman, joined Carlton as the sixth overall selection in the 2021 Mid-Season Draft out of the Blues' VFL squad.
The former Old Ivanhoe and GWS reserves talent has played 28 games for Carlton's VFL side since the start of his draft year and has averaged 35.6 hitouts and 7.6 disposals in the competition for 2023.
Mirkov joins defender Zac Williams (knee) and midfield-forward Sam Philp (foot) in being ruled out for the rest of this year.
