Essendon’s Conor McKenna pulls out of International Rules Series after training injury

DASHING Essendon defender Conor McKenna is wearing a moon boot in Ireland after suffering an injury preparing for the International Rules Series.

Essendon’s Conor McKenna in action. Picture: Michael Klein

DASHING Essendon defender Conor McKenna has been ruled out of the International Rules Series after suffering an injury training with the Irish squad.

The 21-year-old hurt his ankle in Ireland and is now wearing a moon boot.

He will miss the two-test series against Australia next month.

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Recruited from Tyrone in Northern Ireland, McKenna has played 33 games for Essendon including 19 this year.

“It’s obviously disappointing for Conor because he was really looking forward to representing Ireland in the International Rules Series,” Essendon’s General Manager of Football Rob Kerr said.

“He hurt his ankle at training last Friday and has seen a specialist in Ireland who has placed him in a walker boot.

Conor McKenna dashes out of defence. Picture: Michael Klein

“Once he is out of the boot he will return to Australia to progress his rehabilitation.

“There may be some disruption to the early part of his pre-season but we expect he’ll join in full training fairly quickly.”

The two tests will be played at Adelaide Oval on November 12 and Subiaco on November 18.

Bombers Brendon Goddard and Zach Merrett are in the Australian squad.

In better news for Essendon today, rookie Sam Draper signed a two-year contract extension.