Key Essendon defender faces new setback.

Injured Essendon defender Jordan Ridley has encountered a setback in his recovery from a quad injury, potentially extending his time on the sidelines by up to five weeks.

Ridley, who sustained the injury during a pre-season match against Geelong, was initially expected to return by Round 5 against the Bulldogs. However, a recent setback in his rehabilitation has delayed his comeback.

After Friday’s loss to Port Adelaide, coach Brad Scott confirmed that Ridley had experienced a “recurrence” of his quad strain and will face a similar recovery period as his initial injury. The Bombers’ defense has already been challenged this season, with Zach Reid (hamstring) and Kaine Baldwin (foot) dealing with their own injury issues.

In addition, midfielders Sam Durham (concussion) and Dylan Shiel (oblique) are at least a week away from returning, while attackers Matt Guelfi (calf) and Tex Wanganeen (foot) could be back in the lineup within the next two weeks. Guelfi’s recovery has been particularly frustrating, as what was initially considered a minor calf issue has persisted for over a month.

Despite these setbacks, Essendon will aim to regroup for their upcoming game against the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium next Friday night.