GREATER Western Sydney youngster Will Setterfield will miss the 2018 season after confirmation that he ruptured his ACL in a practice match against Sydney on Friday night.
The second-year midfielder came from Henson Park during the third quarter with the left leg injury.
He will undergo a traditional knee recoinstruction after the Giants confirmed the worst on Sunday morning in a statement on the club website.
Head of athletic performance David Joyce said, "This is a disappointing setback for Will, who hadn't put a foot wrong through the pre-season.
"We'll consult with the surgeon in the coming days before mapping out a suitable rehabilitation program for Will.
"He's a terrific young man and he's got the full support of everyone at the Giants behind him."
Lenny Hayes, who took over from Leon Cameron in the coach's box for the match, was fearful for Setterfield post-match.
"It does look like Will Setterfield has torn his ACL," Hayes said.
"He'll go in for scans to confirm, but it's disappointing as he's had a great pre-season."
Setterfield, 20, played twice last season after being taken with the fifth pick in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft.
