Central Coast defender Shane Huke is likely to miss the start of the Hyundai A-League season after suffering a knee injury.
Huke will visit a specialist during the week for further advice after a tendon injury in his left knee flared up during an intense return to pre-season training.
It’s a cruel blow for the 23-year-old who had recently signed a one-year extension to his original Asian Champions League contract.
“Shane picked up a knock at the back end of the ACL but we didn’t think it was anything too serious,” said Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna.
“He then played through the two matches in Queensland, and then had a break, and it was only when he began the pre-season training at such a high intensity we realised it was more serious than we realised.”
“The doc has had a look at it and thinks Shane may be able to be treated without surgery, which is obviously the preferred option. He’ll now meet with a specialist who has worked under experts in Germany, and has treated a lot of other athletes for similar injuries. Our main goal is getting Shane fit again, as soon as possible.”
While Huke will be sidelined for the rest of the pre-season, in more positive news for the club, Dylan Macallister has resumed training after a shoulder injury and fellow striker Matt Simon is close to full fitness following a knee injury.
“Dylan’s back doing everything except the more physical stuff, and Matty has been running again which is good. He sat out Friday’s session just because we don’t want to rush him back too quickly, but hopefully both boys will get some time during the pre-season.” McKinna said.
The Mariners’ next competitive outing is against Belconnen United at McKellar Soccer Centre on Thursday.
