Sydney Swans ruckman Sam Naismith has unfortunately suffered a further setback in his return to senior football.

After suffering a second ACL injury in mid 2020, Naismith returned to play two VFL games in 2021, but reported instability in his knee following his second appearance at VFL level.

Investigations over the past two weeks have revealed that Sam’s ACL repair was unsuccessful due to graft failure.  
 
The club’s medical team has sought opinions from multiple specialists in relation to Sam’s treatment and maximising his prospects of returning to play at senior level and he is expected to undergo a third ACL reconstruction in coming days.
 
Sydney Swans General Manager of Football, Charlie Gardiner, said the latest setback is incredibly disappointing.  

“We are incredibly disappointed for Sam after all of the hard work he has put into his rehabilitation over the past 12 months," Gardiner said.

"He has left no stone unturned in his efforts to get back to play and after a largely uninterrupted rehabilitation program, we were all looking forward to seeing him return in the back half of the year. 

"Unfortunately, due to this latest setback that won’t be possible. However, we know Sam remains hungry and committed to getting back doing what he loves and we will do everything possible to help him achieve that.”

Naismith is contracted until the end of 2022 and will commence his rehabilitation program following surgery which is expected to be 15 – 16 months.