Essendon forward Harrison Jones is expected to miss the next month of action after suffering an ankle injury at training this week.
The 21-year-old was among the highlights of Essendon's 2021 campaign, making his debut in Round 1 against Hawthorn before playing a further 15 matches for the season.
Jones earned a return of 20 goals from his maiden campaign in the red sash, holding down a key role in Ben Rutten's attack.
The athletic forward was ruled out of Essendon's finals series last year after requiring untimely surgery on a niggling foot injury that had seen him miss the final five rounds of the season.
Jones' return now looks set to be delayed, with multiple reports revealing the talented tall expected to miss the opening month of Essendon's 2022 season after suffering ligament damage in his ankle.
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A blow for Essendon on the eve of the season with young forward Harrison Jones suffering an ankle injury this week. Looks likely to miss about a month of footy. @AFLcomau
— Callum Twomey (@CalTwomey) March 12, 2022
Torn ankle ligaments for Essendon forward Harry Jones in a training mishap yesterday. At least a month on the sidelines. Just canโt take a trick.
And big doubt on Aaron Francis with a knee injury. Youโd think Kaine Baldwin in line for a R1 debut
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) March 12, 2022
Jones' setback is sure to compound Rutten's forward selection woes for his side's season opener against Geelong, with livewire Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti currently out of the Round 1 frame.
Gun forward Jake Stringer has battled a groin injury throughout this pre-season, however the ex-Bulldog is tipped to feature at the MCG in a week's time.
Swingman Aaron Francis is also nursing a knee issue that could hamper his hopes of lining up for the Bombers in the early rounds.
Essendon are scheduled to face Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide in the weeks following their clash with against Geelong.
