GOLD Coast defender Rory Thompson has been ruled out of Sunday's encounter with the Western Bulldogs at Metricon Stadium because of a wrist injury.

Thompson has been replaced in the Suns' team by youngster Alex Sexton, while experienced backman Tom Murphy has been upgraded to the emergency-listed players.

"Rory has been hampered by the wrist complaint during the week, and unfortunately he won't be able to take his place in the side this weekend," Suns football manager Marcus Ashcroft told goldcoastfc.com.au.

The Suns are hopeful Thompson will be passed fit for next week's game against Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.