Mattaes Phillipou will miss the start of the 2025 season after scans confirmed a stress fracture in his right femur. The 20-year-old had been enjoying his most promising pre-season before the setback, which will require weeks of crutches followed by a 10–12 week rehabilitation period.
“This is an extremely disappointing development for Mattaes,” said EGM Football David Misson. “He returned this off-season with maturity and focus, but injuries like this are part of the game. We’re confident he’ll approach this challenge with professionalism.”
Phillipou isn’t the only player facing time on the sidelines. Dougal Howard dislocated his shoulder during a standard marking contest at training. While his scans are still pending, recovery timelines for shoulder injuries can range significantly.
Rowan Marshall is also under injury cloud as he manages a stress fracture in his pelvis. Having been on modified duties, he will undergo a CT scan to better understand his recovery path. Despite the setback, the club remains hopeful Marshall could feature in Round 1 or shortly after.
Meanwhile, Paddy Dow is gradually increasing his training load after battling a knee infection, while other injury concerns are tracking positively. Hunter Clark is making progress from a groin issue and could return within weeks. Liam Henry, recovering from knee surgery, has resumed portions of training and is targeting full training soon.
First-year player Alix Tauru is back running as he works through a back injury rehabilitation program. Pleasingly, Liam Stocker and Max King have returned to full training, adding much-needed depth to the squad as the season nears.
Injury List
- Hunter Clark (Groin): 2–3 weeks
- Liam Henry (Knee): 4–6 weeks
- Alix Tauru (Back): 4–8 weeks
- Rowan Marshall (Pelvis): 5–8 weeks
- Mattaes Phillipou (Leg): 10–14 weeks
- Dougal Howard (Shoulder): TBC
- Paddy Dow (Knee): TBC