Hunter Clark won’t play until at least Round 16 after being ruled out for a month with a knee injury.
Clark was withdrawn from Saturday’s game against Hawthorn early in the contest and scans have revealed a high-end MCL sprain in the 24-year-old’s left knee.
The Saints estimate he’ll miss four to six weeks.
“Hunter is unfortunately very well versed in the rehab process, and we have no doubt he’ll attack this period with diligence and professionalism,” acting GM of football David Misson said via a club statement.
Hunter Clark will miss at least a month of football with a knee injury.
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) May 30, 2023
Full injury update 👇
The 24-year-old hasn’t missed a game this season.
With a bye this weekend, the Saints are hopeful Mitch Owens will make a return in Round 13 against Sydney after a concussion suffered in Round 10.
In terms of replacements, Ross Lyon could turn to Marcus Windhager, who has bided his time in the VFL and hasn’t dropped below 25 touches.
Jack Billings has also played the last four VFL games to average a tick under 24 touches an appearance.
Both are coming off strong performances against Coburg on the weekend as the Sandringham Zebras romped to a 57-point win.
The Saints enter the bye with a 7-4 record having lost two of their last three, but still well ahead on what pre-season expectations had them.