Reportedly, Essendon’s Jordan Ridley, who is recovering from a quad injury, has encountered a fresh setback in his rehabilitation, delaying his return to the field for the foreseeable future. Ridley sustained the injury during a pre-season match against Geelong, initially diagnosed as a ‘low-grade strain’. Despite hopes of returning as early as Round 5, his recovery has been hampered, as confirmed by 7 News reporter Mitch Cleary. Cleary noted that while the exact return date remains uncertain, it is unlikely to happen anytime soon.
This setback adds to Essendon’s defensive woes this season, with other players such as Zach Reid and Kaine Baldwin also dealing with injuries. In addition, midfielders Sam Durham and Dylan Shiel are at least a week away from returning, while Matt Guelfi and Tex Wanganeen may rejoin the team in the next couple of weeks. Essendon is set to face Port Adelaide before their meeting with the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium next Friday.