North AFL defender sidelined again

Apr 18, 2017 - 8:52 AM North Melbourne defender Sam Wright has suffered another setback, with a foot injury sidelining him for up to two months.

The 26-year-old last featured at AFL level in round 11 last year and had surgery on both ankles at the end of the season.

He hasn't played a senior game this season but was set to return next week.

However, Wright reported discomfort in a foot as his training loads were increased nearing his return.

"Scans confirmed there was a minor issue with his sesamoid (bone) following the surgery to his syndesmosis (ankle)," North performance manager Steve Saunders said.

"We picked this problem up nice and early and Sam will now have a slower than initially expected recovery period.

"We are taking a very measured approach to his rehabilitation and will graduate his over-ground running loads in the coming weeks.

"Our focus has always been on making sure he returns fully fit and is able to have a significant impact."

Injuries have been a factor in the Kangaroos' disappointing 0-4 start to the season, but Brad Scott's side has at least been getting healthier of late.

Other than Wright, Jarrad Waite (shoulder, 2-3 weeks) and Ben Jacobs (foot, 2-3 weeks) are the only other first-team regulars missing through injury.

Source: AAP