Blues sweat on stars
Carlton coach Brett Ratten says Matthew Kreuzer is doubtful for the elimination final against Essendon, with Jarrad Waite also far from certain to be fit
CARLTON coach Brett Ratten has admitted ruckman Matthew Kreuzer could be in serious doubt for Sunday's elimination final against Essendon, as the club sweats on the results of scans to his injured foot.
Kreuzer complained to medical staff that he was experiencing numbness in his foot in the warm-up before Saturday night's game against St Kilda, and was substituted out of the match in the second quarter.
The 22-year-old was sent for precautionary scans after spending the night in hospital, and was expected to undergo further tests.
Ratten told 3AW the club was none the wiser on the status of their prized big man, but said there was serious concern he may miss the game against Essendon.
"Kreuzer will be in doubt, we're still getting scans and other things done today," Ratten said.
"He was waiting for the specialists and people to come in today to have a look - I have not been filled in this morning.
"On Matthew it's more of a wait and see, and I think we'll find out a bit more this afternoon."
Key defender Michael Jamison (knee) and midfielder Andrew Carazzo, who sustained whiplash in a car accident on Saturday afternoon, withdrew from the clash with St Kilda, but according to Ratten both should be right to take their place next Sunday.
Bret Thornton will also be available for selection.
But Ratten confirmed forward Jarrad Waite was touch and go for the pivotal clash against their arch rivals in Essendon.
"I think today and tomorrow will give us the big picture of where Waite's at," he said.
"I think the longer it goes, the more doubtful he is."