The Gold Coast SUNS have been hit with a major injury blow on the eve of the 2013 season with key forward Tom Lynch set to miss the start of the season.

Lynch injured his left ankle late in the Round 1 NAB Cup match against Brisbane and scans have revealed significant damage to the ankle.

In confirming the news to goldcoastfc.com.au, General Manager Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft said Lynch would be in doubt for Round 1 of the home and away season.

“Unfortunately during the final moments of last weeks match Tom suffered ligament damage to his left ankle and as a result will be unlikely to resume playing for between four and six weeks.”

“His injury is will be closely monitored and we are hoping to have a clearer return date as his ankle settles,” Ashcroft said.

Lynch had surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right foot prior to Christmas. He played the first half of the SUNS intra club match prior to the NAB Cup in what was his return to football following that surgery.

SUNS Injury Update
Nathan Bock – Leg – Bock has commenced weight bearing training and is progressing well. The club will take a conservative approach with Bock and has not placed a time frame on his return.

Clay Cameron – Groin – has resumed training with the team and is progressing well. Cameron will require another 2-3 weeks of continuous training before playing.

Tom Lynch – Ankle – Injured his ankle late in the Round 1 NAB Cup match against Brisbane. Lynch suffered ligament damage as is expected to miss 4-6 weeks.

Trent McKenzie – Knee –McKenzie looks set to join the main squad next week, however the club will be patient with his progress with he view of maximising his performance throughout the year rather than rushing him back into the side.

Liam Patrick – Hamstring – is progressing really well and is expected to resume full training in 2 weeks.

Seb Tape – Knee – Tape is completing a combination of both, modified and full team training. Tape is progressing well and is expected to be available to play in 4-6 weeks.