Longford ace Matt Duffy's hopes of playing Australian Rules football have been dealt major blow following a bad injury.
The 19-year-old ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament while playing for Dromard in the Longford football championship.
Duffy signed for Australian side the Carlton Blues last August but now looks set to be sidelined for 12 months.
Duffy’s regarded as one of the county’s brightest future stars and caught the attention of Australian rules scouts in 2021.
Carlton’s General Manager of Football Brad Lloyd expressed his disappointment on hearing the news.
“We really feel for Matt who had worked so hard to earn this opportunity," said Lloyd.
"But we have told him we are committed to supporting him right throughout his recovery.
“Matt had been doing everything possible back home in Ireland to ensure when he officially joined the Club, he would be ready to handle the rigours of an AFL pre-season.
“It’s really unfortunate he will now be sidelined, however he will have all the resources he needs to ensure he makes a full recovery.”
