The Brisbane Lions have been dealt a significant blow in their AFL premiership aspirations with Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale to undergo ankle surgery.
Key points:
- Neale sustained an ankle injury in Saturday’s win over Carlton
- The Lions are unsure when Neale will be available to play again
- Neale was offered a $1,500 fine for making contact with an umpire during the clash with the Blues
Neale hurt his right ankle during a contest in the Lions’ 18-point win against Carlton at Docklands on Saturday.
The 27-year-old played out the match under duress, but the club confirmed on Sunday night that he would need an operation.
In a brief statement, the Lions said details about how long the star midfielder would be sidelined would be confirmed at a later time.
Neale has been well below his stunning Brownlow Medal-winning form of 2020 this season but remains one of the AFL’s elite players.
He was also offered a $1,500 fine for making contact with an umpire during the win over the Blues.
Touted as premiership contenders again this season, the Lions have won their last two matches to recover to a 3-3 win-loss record after an underwhelming opening to 2021.
AAP
