A FITNESS cloud surrounds Carlton star Patrick Cripps after the midfielder suffered a fractured jaw in Sunday's loss to Melbourne.
Demons recruit Jordan Lewis struck the dominant on-baller behind play in the last quarter, an action that has seen the former Hawk hit with a three-week ban from the Match Review Panel.
AFL.com.au revealed Cripps' injury is at the minor end and will be assessed this week ahead of Sunday's clash against Essendon at the MCG. The fracture is not displaced.
Carlton confirmed the injury later on Monday and said it would monitor his fitness.
"Patrick had scans last night which confirmed a small hairline fracture in his jaw," Blues football manager Andrew McKay said in a statement.
"Given his jaw is stable and not displaced, we will assess him further over the coming days to determine whether he will be available to play this Sunday against the Bombers."
Cripps was excellent in the Blues' 22-point loss to the Dees, gathering 29 disposals (17 contested touches) and 10 clearances.
Medical reports from Carlton were used in the MRP's final penalty for Lewis, who crossed to the Dees in a shock trade at the end of last season.
