ESSENDON skipper Jobe Watson will miss Friday night’s blockbuster against Hawthorn with a broken collarbone.
Watson suffered the injury in the opening minutes of his team’s win over Port Adelaide in Round 15 and had surgery in the days following to repair the break.
The inspirational skipper and reigning Brownlow medallist has been in hot form this season, despite the adversity and speculation surrounding him and his club.
The captain has begun non-contact training but still remains at least 2-4 weeks ago from a return and won’t be there to lead the Bombers out in the top-of-the-table clash.
“Jobe is going well as he is in full training without contact. When it is bone it is four to six weeks and so we will just take it as it comes,” Essendon football operations manager, Steve Alessio said.
Watson was the favourite to win back-to-back Brownlow Medals up until his injury, averaging 28.7 touches and still remains a strong chance to be crown the league’s fairest and best player this season, such has been his influence over Essendon matches this season.
The 28 year old is a big loss for the second-placed Bombers given he is ranked number one at his club for centre clearances, clearances, contested possessions and disposals.
He has also kicked 14 goals this season.
