Setback for Collingwood Train-On Josh Eyre: Hamstring Injury Threatens AFL Return
Josh Eyre was seen hobbling off the field during Collingwood's training session on Friday.
Collingwood train-on player Josh Eyre has encountered another setback in his bid for a return to AFL action, sustaining a hamstring injury during Friday’s training session. The 21-year-old, who has been with the reigning premiers since the start of the pre-season supplemental selection period in late November, had been making a strong case for inclusion on the rookie list throughout the summer.
Eyre had to cut short his training session at the AIA Centre after injuring his hamstring while participating in a drill involving running and diving for a ball in the goal square. Scans have confirmed a tear in his hamstring tendon, necessitating surgery and potentially sidelining him for up to three months.
This setback comes a year after Eyre suffered a serious hamstring injury while vying for a spot on St Kilda’s list during the Supplemental Selection Period. Despite that setback, he showcased his talent as a tall defender in the latter part of the VFL season for Collingwood’s affiliate team, earning an opportunity to train with the senior squad over the summer.
Standing at 198cm tall, Eyre has impressed as a versatile player during the pre-season trials at Collingwood. However, his ability to remain injury-free throughout the training period was crucial for his chances of securing a spot on the rookie list. Alongside Eyre, several other players, including Jack Bytel, Brynn Teakle, Campbell Hustwaite, Lachie Sullivan, Sam Sofronidis, and Ned Long, have been trialing with Collingwood during the summer.
The decision on Eyre’s future with Collingwood is yet to be made. The club has until the SSP deadline on February 19 to add up to three players to the rookie list, and prospective players are allowed to continue training until the following Thursday.
