Exciting Essendon forward Irving Mosquito has taken indefinite leave from the club, leaving his AFL career in doubt, reportsย Fox Sports'ย Tom Morris.
The 20-year old made his debut in last year's Dreamtime clash against Richmond and dazzled, booting two goals.
However, a ruptured ACL suffered against Geelong in Round 16 prematurely ended his debut season four games in, effectively ruled him out for all of 2021.
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Morris' report states that Mosquito has been away from the Bombers since Round 3 after returning to his hometown of Halls Creek in Western Australia to be with family.
โLong-term rehabilitation is a tough proposition for all injured players, and certainly Irving has been transparent about his struggles throughout his recovery period,โ Essendon football boss Josh Mahoney told foxfooty.com.au.
โHe recently asked to return home to be with his community and we were supportive of Irving taking the time to work through that.
โHis wellbeing is our immediate priority and we will continue to work with Irving on what this means for his playing future.โ
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I hope this isnโt the last we see of Irving Mosquito, long term rehab is very tough on anyone mentally let alone if youโre battling homesickness, hope this stay at home helps him find happiness, love to see him and that massive smile thriving on big stage pic.twitter.com/WrB3NjJ3k1
— Bryce Parker (@bryce_parker26) May 11, 2021
The youngster's manager Matt Bain from TLA was "adamant" he has not given up on his AFL dream but has no immediate plans to return to the Bombers.
Mosquito is out-of-contract at season's end, and while he has not ruled out a return, sources reportedly believe it is unlikely.
He was drafted to Essendon with Pick 38 in the 2018 National Draft after the Hawks opted not to match a bid on him as one of their Next Generation Academy products.
