Despite his ties to the West Coast, Sydney coach John Longmire claims Dean Cox is committed to the Swans.
INFO-FORM A major blow to the Swans as they approach the finals is that Sydney midfielder Justin McInerney will be sidelined for several weeks due to a knee brace, and it is uncertain when he would be able to return.
During their 79-point victory over North Melbourne on Saturday, McInerney sustained a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) damage to his left knee.
Coach John Longmire has acknowledged he will be sidelined for the near future, but swelling has delayed scans to determine the extent of the injury.
With the Swans, the 23-year-old has had the best season of his career, showcasing his versatility and making an impact off half-back, on the wing, and in some ball play.
“He will be in a brace for a couple of weeks and then we’ll see how he goes from there,” Longmire stated.
We’re not exactly sure what that signifies because PCLs can be somewhat unpredictable.
“We’re not sure how much longer than that it will take, but it’s at least a few weeks.
“He’s a huge asset to our team, so hopefully it won’t be long. This season, he has been fantastic for us.”
When Luke Parker and Callum Mills return, Sydney will at least have superstar Isaac Heeney back for Sunday’s match against Brisbane, even though Longmire is having trouble making a roster due to injuries.
As momentum rises for the West Coast legend to return home, Longmire says assistant coach Dean Cox is still focused on Sydney.
The Eagles have already started the process of finding a permanent replacement for previous head coach Adam Simpson, and Cox has emerged as the early favorite to take over for Jarrad Schofield in the interim.
Before joining Simpson’s coaching staff, former ruckman Cox played 290 games for West Coast from 2001 to 2014, including the team’s 2006 championship victory. Then, in 2017, the 42-year-old relocated to Sydney.