Bulldogs’ utility Mitch Hannan will miss the remainder of the 2023 season after rupturing his Achilles tendon during Footscray’s 66-point win over North Melbourne on Saturday.

The 29-year-old had surgery completed over the weekend and begins a nine-month rehabilitation period later this week.

“Mitch Hannan has unfortunately suffered an Achilles tendon rupture,” Head of Sports Medicine, Chris Bell said.

“He was running in space, with the injury happening spontaneously and without warning.

“Mitch has already had surgery to repair the tendon.

“With a 9-12 month recovery period common for these types of injuries, we will put our arms around Mitch to support him over the next few weeks before we start to map out his rehabilitation plan.”

02:06

Victoria University Medical Room | Round 22

Thanks to VU, Chris Bell gives a medical update on Scott, Hannan and more

Anthony Scott and Robbie McComb both suffered concussion during their respective fixtures and will miss this weekend’s games.

Ryan Gardner has been struggling with several issues over the past month and was given time to heal over the weekend, missing the clash with Richmond.

“Ryan Gardner has been carrying a few injury niggles over the last few weeks,” Bell said.

“One is an irritated ankle and the other is a minor ligament injury in his toe.

“To make sure that these niggles didn’t impact Ryan's performance, we thought it was best to give Ryan the week off playing to allow these niggles to improve.

“We will monitor Ryan this week to determine if he returns to availability.”

Alex Keath will return to availability after overcoming a concussion suffered against GWS in Ballarat a fortnight ago.

Hayden Crozier is in the final stages of his rehabilitation following a hamstring injury and could return to availability as soon as this weekend, providing he completes training on Thursday.

Harvey Gallagher has recovered strongly from a bout of Glandular Fever, returning to full training this week, with an eye on selection for the upcoming weekend.

Injury List

Harvey Gallagher (illness): Test
Ryan Gardner (general soreness): Test
Alex Keath (concussion): Test
Hayden Crozier (hamstring): Test
Robbie Mccomb (concussion): 1-2 weeks
Anthony Scott (concussion): 1-2 weeks
Tim O’Brien (hamstring): 1-2 weeks
Sam Darcy (quad): 3-4 weeks
Roarke Smith (foot): 3-4 weeks
Dom Bedendo (groin): Indefinite
Josh Bruce (knee): Indefinite
Mitch Hannan (Achilles): Indefinite