The Sydney Swans will take a cautious approach to Callum Mills’ condition as the backman strives to be fit for Saturday’s clash with the Gold Coast Suns.
Mills, concussed from an incident involving Melbourne’s Thomas Bugg on Friday night, will be monitored closely by medical staff during the week to determine whether the 20-year-old will be fully recovered in time to resume his place in defence for the Round 15 clash at the SCG.
Head of Football Tom Harley said in this week’s HCF Injury Update that Mills will be given ample opportunity, but his health remains paramount.
“Due to the fact it’s before the tribunal we can’t make any specific comments other than he was clearly concussed and played no further part in the game,” Harley said.
“As far as his prognosis this week goes, it’s a bit early to call.
“He has gone through standard concussion protocol and we’ll update that a little bit later in the week.”
The incident, which was referred directly straight to the tribunal by the Match Review Panel, forced Mills from the ground in the hands of trainers.
He was assessed before the call was made to end his night early.
Mills has played every game of 2017, following on from a strong debut season where the QBE Sydney Swans Academy product won the AFL and Club’s Rising Star awards.
He’s averaged 17 disposals, four marks and two tackles in his 14 games this season as an integral part of the Swans’ backline.
Meanwhile, a trio of Swans have been ruled out for an extra week as they continue their recovery from respective injuries.
Kurt Tippett (ankle) and Harry Cunningham (LisFranc) will miss another week while Will Hayward (foot), who developed the sore spot ahead of Round 15, will be rested despite showing favourable signs as early as Tuesday.