Key Swan set for extended absence with achilles concern

JOEL Amartey is staring down the barrel of an 8-10 week absence after scans revealed a partial achilles tear.

A return for finals is still a possibility at this stage, but Sydney’s medicos are this afternoon canvassing other opinions.

Amartey underwent an initial set of scans on Friday after he was withdrawn late in Thursday night’s loss to Brisbane.

Those scans revealed Amartey had suffered achilles damage, but not a complete rupture, leaving the door ajar for a September return.

It remains to be seen whether Sydney are happy with that timeline or if further medical advice has him sitting out the remainder of the campaign.

The injury is particularly unfortunate timing for Amartey, who in the thick of contract negotiations with the Swans, with another 3-4 rival clubs interested in securing his signature.

Amartey, 26 and an unrestricted free agent, has kicked 28 goals from 15 games this season.