Back injury rules Freo defender Michael Johnson out
Back surgery ends Docker defender's season before September
FREMANTLE has suffered a blow to its premiership ambitions with defender Michael Johnson ruled out of the Dockers' finals campaign due to a back injury.
Johnson consulted a specialist on Monday and has been advised to undergo exploratory surgery.
“Michael played out Saturday’s game under some discomfort,” Fremantle's general manager of football operations Chris Bond said.
“We were hopeful that it could be treated and he would be able to play during our finals’ campaign but the medical advice we now have is that there are no other treatment options available and an operation was considered the only appropriate course of action.
“Michael will have the procedure this week.”
Johnson has been a key component of the Dockers' backline this season, playing 18 games and averaging nearly 20 disposals per game.
Fremantle coach Ross Lyon did not hide his disappointment at losing last year's All Australian defender.
"He'll be sorely missed," Lyon told 6PR on Monday night.
"But in saying that it's one out one in and it's a really exciting opportunity for whoever comes in."
Lyon declared Alex Silvagni a certainty to play after he was a late withdrawal from last Saturday's win over Port Adelaide due to match-ups.
Luke McPharlin is still battling to recover from a calf problem that has kept him out for the past three matches. Lyon said the veteran was highly unlikely but did not rule him out.
The Dockers also have the option of throwing forwards Chris Mayne or Matt Taberner into defence as both men have filled roles in the back half at different stages this year.
"That's the beauty of our flexibility," Lyon said.
"(Mayne has) played down back and (Matt) Taberner has been down there so he could be a likely one down there."
"Where's your celebration??" | Callum Mills mic'd up
Go behind the scenes as we mic up Sydney Swans captain Callum Mills at a training session with his junior club, Mosman Swans
01:27
Best of the Best, presented by bitcoin.com.au - Round 3
Best of the Best, presented by bitcoin.com.au - Round 3
06:11
"Our preparation now is about Richmond this weekend" - Longmire
Hear from coach John Longmire as he chats to media following our win over Essendon, and ahead of Sunday afternoon footy at the MCG against the Richmond Tigers.
01:05
"It's always a good game against Richmond" - McLean
Hear from Swans star Hayden McLean as the boys enjoy a recovery session in the Bondi sunshine.
Are you heading to Adelaide? This is how you can get involved with the Sydney Swans at Gather Round.
Squad announced ahead of Richmond clash
An extended bench has been named in anticipation for our Easter Sunday fixture against the Tigers.
Expert Tipping: Who will take home the chocolates after Round 3?
Five days of footy is almost here.
Hall of Fame Bio: Bob Pratt
As we reflect on the club's 150 year history, which began in South Melbourne in 1874 and then to the harbour city in 1982, we will take a look back each week and feature our Sydney Swans Hall of Fame.