Hawthorn midfielder Will Day is facing up to four months on the sidelines after scans revealed a stress fracture in the navicular bone of his foot. The 23-year-old will undergo surgery, dealing a major blow to the undefeated Hawks.
Day, a key member of the 'Hollywood Hawks', had an impressive start to the season, including a best-on-ground performance in the Opening-Round win against Sydney. He missed the early part of last season and was also forced out of Hawthorn's two finals due to injury.
Hawthorn doctor Liam West confirmed the need for surgery. 'In this instance, surgery is required to fix the fracture. Additionally, surgery will also reduce the risk of future issues for Will during his career,' West said.
Hawks football boss Rob McCartney described the injury as a 'bitter blow'. 'Will is one of the most determined and resilient young individuals I know, and these attributes will come to the fore as he starts his rehab journey,' McCartney said. 'With the knowledge and expertise in our medical team I am confident Will can return to the park before the end of the season.'
Hawthorn (4-0) sits atop the ladder heading into their Gather Round clash against Port Adelaide on Saturday night. In other injury news, Adelaide Crows midfielder Izak Rankine could miss Thursday night's game against Geelong due to a calf issue, with internal bleeding from a knock sustained during last weekend's match.
