Young West Coast Eagles forward Emily Elkington will be sidelined for the remainder of the season after suffering multiple concussions.
Most recently, the 19-year-old Claremont product sustained a head knock in the Eagles’ pre-season game against St Kilda, which saw her taken from the field and play no further part.
Under the advice of the Eagles’ medical staff, the AFL Chief Medical Officer and a neurologist, Elkington will undergo further testing to establish a return timeframe.
It’s positive news for Eagles pair Jaide Britton and Sasha Goranova this week, both looking likely to be available for selection against Port Adelaide on Saturday.
Britton suffered a head knock against Collingwood in week four and has missed the last two games under concussion protocols, while Goranova sustained a hamstring injury in the Eagles’ week three win over the Bulldogs.
“Jaide has been progressing though concussion protocols, she will be a test later this week for availability this weekend,” Salisbury said.
“Sasha, with her hamstring, she will be a test for availability this week if she can get through main training.”
Key forward Amy Franklin broke her finger in the Eagles’ week four win over Collingwood and is expected to spend some more time on the sidelines, as is Jess Hosking with a quad strain.
“With Amy, still progressing through her broken finger, she will be another two or three weeks away,” Salisbury said.
“Jess’s quad is progressing nicely, probably another week or so away as she builds back into full training load.”
Experienced defender Sophie McDonald suffered a concussion against Brisbane in week four, her first game back after a pre-season head knock and minor wrist injury.
“Unfortunately, Soph suffered another concussion against Brisbane,” Salisbury said.
“It’s her second (concussion) in quick succession, and she’s entered the concussion protocols and will await a return timeframe."