Geelong have confirmed midfielder Cameron Guthrie will miss up to 10 weeks after damaging a tendon in his quad.
Guthrie sustained in the injury in the opening seconds of his side's pre-season clash with Carlton last Thursday, with the veteran Cat taking no further part in the match simulation session.
Following recent scans for the premiership onballer, Geelong have confirmed significant damage to Guthrie's right quad that will keep the 31-year-old sidelined for at least two months.
โThe prognosis indicates Cam will be sidelined for 8-10 weeks, Cam is the ultimate professional who will attack his rehab diligently with the support of our medical team and we look forward to having back on the field in the early part of the season," Geelong football boss Andrew Mackie said in a club update.
A foot injury kept the two-time best and fairest winner to just six games last year - with Guthrie's last match coming in April.
Guthrie did make a late season appearance for Geelong's VFL side to mark his long-awaited return, with a full pre-season placing the midfielder in good stead prior to his recent setback.
Outside of Guthrie's fresh ailment, the Cats are near full health on the eve of their 2024 campaign, which will commence with a Round 1 clash against St Kilda on Saturday, March 16
Geelong are also set to face Essendon this week for their final pre-season game, which is scheduled for 5:10pm local time at GMHBA Stadium.
