“IT’S A bit of a blow from that point of view, but it gives opportunity to others as we know.”
Carlton Head of Football Brad Lloyd has challenged the Blues’ emerging midfielders to seize the opportunity presented in Sam Walsh’s absence.
It was announced late last night that ankle surgery will sideline Carlton’s co-vice captain for the early rounds of the season: the first games that Walsh will miss in his Navy Blue career since his debut back in 2019.
Detailing the injury on SEN Breakfast, Lloyd said that the injury was a foreign concept to Walsh, who has rarely missed a match - or even a training session - throughout his junior career.
However, Lloyd said he had no doubts about Walsh attacking his rehabilitation with his trademark determination and professionalism.
“It was in a bit of match simulation at training: a player came across his ankle and it got caught in the contest… you can just get unlucky sometimes, which Sam has,” Lloyd said.
“He’s barely missed any footy in his career in general, even as a kid. It’s new to him, but he’s unbelievably resilient in the way he goes about things.
“Scans revealed that he needed to have some surgery today. He’ll start his recovery and he’s an absolute pro, so he’ll do that well and be back before we know it.”
Carlton added to its midfield depth over the off-season, adding in Adam Cerra and George Hewett via the trade table and free agency respectively.
Impressing at their new home over the summer, Lloyd said the midfield duo were just two examples of ways that the Blues could look to cover Walsh’s absence in the opening month of the home-and-away campaign.
He said the team’s upcoming practice matches against St Kilda and Melbourne would be the opportunity for players to step up and take their chance.
“We’re looking forward to seeing George Hewett, we’re looking forward to seeing Adam Cerra and what he can do,” he said.
“We’re building some depth and the list is maturing, and a lot of the boys have had strong pre-season.
“We all know that Sam has been a sensational player for us since he came to the Club as the No.1 pick.
“The players will know they need to [seize the opportunity]: Sam is hard to replace, but they’ll be chomping at the bit to get that opportunity as well.”
Lloyd also answered questions on Charlie Curnow, Mitch McGovern, Caleb Marchbank and the Club’s open list spot. For the full interview, listen in the player above.
