Sydney is hoping key forward Joel Amartey's Achilles injury isn't too bad.

Amartey didn't finish Thursday night's clash against Brisbane with the foot concern, playing just 68 per cent of the game time.

The Swan's tall was clearly hindered by the soreness, registering three disposals, two marks and two behinds before his night was finished.

"It was sore at the end of the game," Sydney coach Dean Cox said.

Longmire explains decision to stop Amartey-party at nine
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 09: Joel Amartey of the Swans celebrates kicking a goal during the round 13 AFL match between Sydney Swans and Geelong Cats at SCG on June 09, 2024, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

"That's all I know. The procedures that will happen now are about trying to find out what happened and how bad it is. Hopefully it's not too bad, and he can be available and train all next week."

Key defender Tom McCartin sent scares through the club after landing heavily from a tackle, performing a whiplash motion and was at risk of another concussion.

McCartin, who just returned to the senior side after missing through concussion, passed a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) on the night, with Cox providing the latest.

Given his history with head knocks, the Swans will tread cautiously over the next few days to ensure there's not a delayed concussion.

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"He's fine in the changerooms, which is great to see he passed the (HIA)," Cox said.

Successful VFL return for Sydney defender Tom McCartin following concussion battle
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 29: Tom McCartin of the Swans looks on during the round seven AFL match between Sydney Swans and Greater Western Sydney Giants at Sydney Cricket Ground, on April 29, 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

"At the time, when they say he's going down for an HIA, no matter what player it is, you just want the best for that player and make sure everything is okay. But when the message comes up (that he is okay), it's great to hear."

Swans star Errol Gulden returned for his first game since Round 1 when he dislocated his shoulder against the Lions.

Gulden gathered 18 disposals from 77 per cent of game time, as well as laying six tackles and taking four marks.

"Yeah, there was (a bit of blowing the cobwebs out)," Cox said.

"That's the part about coming in off a long break against a really good football team. He'll learn and be better for it. I know how much of a professional he is. How much he looks at his game, and wants to improve, even if he's playing well.

"He got to 100 minutes, and that was enough, also where the scoreboard was, so it was a chance to get him through this week.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 14: Errol Gulden of the Swans looks on at the end of the matchduring the round one AFL match between Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions at Sydney Cricket Ground, on March 14, 2026, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 14: Errol Gulden of the Swans looks on at the end of the match during the round one AFL match between Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions at Sydney Cricket Ground, on March 14, 2026, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

"Bigger and better on Friday night against the Bulldogs."

The Swans will hope defensive duo Lewis Melican and Dane Rampe perform strongly in the VFL following their return from injury.

Hayden McLean and Harry Kyle will be the ones to watch for a recall.

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