GREATER Western Sydney defender Nick Haynes has been ruled out for about 10 weeks after suffering a hamstring tendon tear against the Western Bulldogs on Friday night.
The 24-year-old landed awkwardly in the splits position following a one-on-one marking contest late in the final quarter at Manuka Oval and walked off the ground gingerly.
The club said Haynes would not need surgery to repair his hamstring at this stage.
"We're all really disappointed for Nick, who's been in terrific form early in the season," Giants performance manager David Joyce told gwsgiants.com.au on Sunday afternoon.
"We'll now map out the right program for him to ensure he returns to the field in peak condition later in the year."
After GWS' two-point win over the Bulldogs, Giants coach Leon Cameron said early signs were that Haynes had suffered an adductor injury in the incident.
However, scans over the weekend revealed the hamstring injury.
"They're saying no hamstring, so that's pleasing," Cameron said on Friday night.
Haynes was recruited with pick No.7 in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft and has played 68 games for the club, including all six matches this season.
The Giants face St Kilda at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.
