ERONE Fitzpatrick will undergo surgery this week after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament in the final round of the 2023 AFLW season.

Fitzpatrick suffered the injury in the first quarter of the Round 10 game against St Kilda.

The 23-year-old had an outstanding debut season for the Blues since arriving from Ireland in the off-season.

Fitzpatrick played every game, on her way to averaging 10.5 disposals, 2.6 tackles and 1.7 clearances per game as well as kicking six goals.

Fitzpatrick’s availability for the 2024 AFLW season will become clearer as her rehabilitation progresses in the New Year.

Carlton Head of AFLW Ash Naulty said the Club would support Erone to give her the best chance of featuring next season.

"Erone has shown incredible work ethic and professionalism from the moment she touched down in Australia, characteristics that will hold her in great stead as she enters her rehabilitation,” Naulty said.

"We will all get around her and offer Erone the proper support she needs. She will commence her recovery in Australia and have every resource available to her to make a full recovery.”