The Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs are set to be without new signing Connor Tracey for the opening five to six weeks of the 2024 NRL season, according to SEN’s Michelle Bishop.
Tracey, who only signed for the Bulldogs on the 28th of November, has succumbed to an ankle injury suffered which happened on his final day at preseason training with Cronulla.
Tracey was a strong chance to be the Bulldogs’ starting fullback come Round 1 but will now be forced to watch the fixture from the sidelines.
Speaking on SEN, Bishop revealed the details of the injury and what the next couple of months may look like for Tracey.
“Connor Tracey had a bit of an accident at training,” Bishop said on SEN 1170 The Run Home.
“24 hours before he actually did the deal (and) signed the new contract at the Bulldogs, he rolled his ankle.
“It’s not just an average roll, it was a really bad roll, he will be out.
“He will definitely miss the (first) five, six weeks of next season.
“(He) can’t do much preseason which is a massive blow and you hate to seeing this with rugby league players.”
Bishop praised the Bulldogs management for sticking by Tracey, despite having the ability to severe ties with him prior to the contract being signed.
“Well done to the Bulldogs, they had the opportunity to pull the pin (on the deal),” Bishop added.
“They knew about this (injury), they were informed.
“But Cameron Ciraldo, a man of his word, and obviously Gus Gould, they’ve let it happen and he’s now started his rehab there.
“Not the ideal to do your preseason but we wish Connor Tracey the best.
“There’s just nothing worse, especially when you’re going to a new club, you’re trying to impress, you’re trying to win your position.”