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Carlton reveal early season blow for star midfielder, forward also sidelined

Not the news Blues fans wanted.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Carlton will be without both Sam Walsh and Jesse Motlop for their Opening Round trip to face Brisbane this week, with the pair potentially missing multiple matches to start the new season.

Walsh, who is currently dealing with a back complaint and is on a modified program, won't play until after the Blues' Round 2 bye, with a return the week after against North Melbourne a potential return date.

Motlop injured his toe during last week's practice match against Melbourne and will require 1-2 weeks on the sidelines before being cleared to play.

That timeline rules him out of Opening Round and places the small forward in doubt for his side's Round 1 clash with Richmond the following Thursday.

Thankfully, the Blues have listed both Corey Durdin and Matt Owies as available for selection after the duo overcame recent ailments, while recruit Orazio Fantasia has impressed over the course of the pre-season to stake his claim for a spot in Michael Voss' forward line.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 21: Jesse Motlop of the Blues in action during the round 23 AFL match between the Carlton Blues and the Collingwood Magpies at Melbourne Cricket Ground on August 21, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Carlton have also revealed that defender Caleb Marchbank won't be available until Round 3 at the very least as he deals with an illness that has sidelined him indefinitely.

Forward Jack Martin also remains sidelined with a knee issue that has the former Sun on a modified program. Martin still requires 2-3 weeks in rehabilitation.

Rookie Matt Carroll is currently dealing with a groin issue that has the teenager ruled out until after the club's Round 2 bye as well.

The Blues are scheduled to face Brisbane and Richmond across the next two weeks before their early season break, with a return coming against North Melbourne on Good Friday.

Published by
Mitch Keating