Western Bulldogs midfielder-forward Toby McLean has suffered an ACL injury to his right knee.

The 24-year-old had his leg caught under a tackle in the opening minutes of Sunday’s 36-point win against Hawthorn at Adelaide Oval and was stretchered from the field of play.

“Scans have today confirmed Toby has sustained an ACL injury,” medical services manager, Chris Bell said.

“Toby will return to Melbourne today and have a surgical opinion over the next couple of days to determine the best course of action for him.”

McLean has been an important player for the Bulldogs this season in his 12 AFL matches – including a best-on-ground performancein last week’s narrow win against the West Coast Eagles.

Senior coach Luke Beveridge acknowledged McLean would be difficult to replace.

“He’s versatile, he’s been important with some of the roles he’s played this year,” Beveridge said post-game.

“He’s a resilient character, Toby. He’s been through a lot in his life, not just his footy career. 

“Tobes will be okay. We’ll get him through, we’ll support him… He’s still got many years ahead of him, and hopefully many productive years as a Western Bulldogs player.”