Central Coast defender Shane Huke has suffered a major injury setback, likely to rule him out for the remainder of the Mariners pre-season campaign
Central Coast defender Shane Huke has suffered a major injury setback, likely to rule him out for the remainder of the Mariners pre-season campaign and possibly the start of the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 campaign.
Huke will visit a specialist this week for further advice after a tendon injury in his left knee flared up during an intense return to pre-season training.
It-s a cruel blow for the former Peterborough United and Dagenham and Redbridge man, who had only recently signed a one-year extension to his original Asian Champions League contract.
“Shane picked up a knock at the back end of the ACL but we didn-t think it was anything too serious,” said Mariners football manager Lawrie McKinna.
“He then played through the two matches in Queensland, and then had a break, and it was only when he began the pre-season training at such a high intensity we realized it was more serious than we realized.
“The doc has had a look at it and thinks Shane may be able to be treated without surgery, which is obviously the preferred option. He-ll now meet with a specialist who has worked under experts in Germany, and has treated a lot of other athletes for similar injuries. Our main goal is getting Shane fit again, as soon as possible,” McKinna said.
While Huke will be sidelined for the rest of the pre-season, in more positive news on the injury front, Dylan Macallister has resumed training after a shoulder injury, while fellow striker Matt Simon is also close to full fitness after suffering a knee injury.
“Dylan-s back doing everything except the more physical stuff, and Matty has been running again which is good. He sat out Friday-s session just because we don-t want to rush him back too quickly, but hopefully both boys will get some time during the pre-season.” McKinna said.
The Mariners will play their next trial of the pre-season on Thursday against Belconnen United at McKellar Soccer Centre, kick off is at 7pm.
Tickets for this match are $10 for Adults, Under 18-s free.
Mariners Memberships for the 2009/10 Hyundai A-League season are now available online by clicking here or by calling 1300 767 442.
