Carlton development coach and Northern Blues player Kieran McGuinness has undergone surgery after suffering a significant injury on Sunday playing against Casey.

McGuinness was taken to hospital during the game, with scans revealing he had fractured three vertebrae at the base of his neck.

Carlton Head of Football Andrew McKay said McGuinness did not sustain any spinal damage but required surgery to stabilise the fractures. 

“It was a really terrible incident but fortunately, the good news is that Kieran will make a full recovery,” McKay said.

"We look forward to him being back at work as soon as possible but at this stage his health is our absolute priority."

McGuinness will remain in hospital for a few days before returning home to recover.