There’s no doubt Tom Mitchell’s broken leg has made a dent in Hawthorn’s 2019 plans.
But while the reigning Brownlow Medallist is certainly a difficult man to replace, Hawks sharpshooter Jack Gunston believes the club has the depth to fill the void.
Although Gunston conceded that Mitchell’s “gruesome” injury will undoubtedly impact the Hawks’ 2019 campaign, the All Australian forward seemed confident in the midfield brigade being able to cover for the loss of their star teammate.
"I guess the beauty of our last couple of years is we have had the Worpels, the James Cousins, the Dan Howes who have been able to get exposure at AFL footy,” Gunston said.
“To have them come through, I guess a spot now opens up for them, and it's a good opportunity for them to grab it with both hands.
"We still have a lot of pre-season to go but we have a lot of depth on our list that can come in and fill those roles."
The 27-year-old said the Hawthorn players have supported Mitchell through the early stages of his recovery.
"You just feel for your mate at the time,” he said.
“You know it's probably hurting and it's a pretty gruesome injury as well, you are just hoping he is all right and the docs could get out there as quick as they could.
“Everyone was thinking about Tommy that day, it was obviously a tough one for him and people close to him.”
Mitchell could still play an important role for the playing group this year, with Gunston expecting him to be involved in the coaching and off-field dynamic of the club.
"It's pretty hard to replace a Brownlow Medallist and two-time best-and-fairest player with his leadership on-field, his drive and his desire to get the most out of himself.
"But, off-field, I still think he is going to be doing that through his rehab, being in Sam Mitchell's pocket with the midfielders and probably doing a little bit of coaching on the side, to get him through and keep him around the group.
“We will keep him involved because he is such a quality football brain that you don't want him sitting in rehab and not helping out the boys."
