Clay Smith will undergo traditional reconstructive surgery later this week to his right knee, after scans on Monday confirmed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
The injury incurred late in the round 16 clash against Essendon will rule the midfielder out for the remainder of the 2013 season.
After speculation post match, Western Bulldogs Medical Services Manager Andrew McKenzie revealed scans had confirmed the initial diagnosis.
“Unfortunately Clay ruptured his ACL yesterday, we’ve had scans today which has confirmed that diagnosis,” McKenzie said.
“He will have a traditional ACL repair later this week .”
Meanwhile, captain Matthew Boyd’s recovery from a fractured cheekbone is ahead of schedule.
“Boydy has seen the specialist last week and he was very happy with his progress,” McKenzie said.
“He’s given him the all clear to return to full training, we will see how he goes over the week.”
Easton Wood made a comeback through Williamstown’s development side on Saturday and will look to build on game time this week.
“Easton got through the game, he’s pulled up well, we are really happy with where he’s got,” McKenzie said.
“He ran three quarters of the game out and he will build that up this week.”
Tom Young (concussion) and Nick Lower (ankle sprain) both suffered minor injuries in the VFL on Saturday but are expected to be available this weekend.
Rookie key position prospect Jack Redpath has sustained bone bruising to his knee after landing awkwardly at training last week.
The 22-year-old is expected to spend the next two to three weeks on the sidelines.
“Last week in training Jack landed heavily on his knee, he’s got a bit of bone bruising and there is significant swelling around the joint,” McKenzie said.
“We will settle the swelling down but we expect him to be back and playing in the next few weeks.”