Essendon can confirm defender Angus Clarke sustained a syndesmosis injury during training at the NEC Hangar on Wednesday morning. 

The injury occurred in a routine tackling drill during this morning’s training session. Scans later confirmed the injury, with the young Don set for surgery this afternoon.  

Essendon's General Manager - AFL Daniel McPherson expressed his disappointment for the second-year player but backed his resilient character to handle the recovery. 

“We are all feeling for 'Clarkey' after this setback on the eve of the season,” McPherson said. 

“He has put in a mountain of work in preparation for the season, so to have this happen so close to the start line is really disappointing for him. He’s a tough kid though - we know he’ll bounce back quickly.”  

The Club will provide a further update on Clarke’s expected return to play timeline once his rehabilitation plan is finalised.