Hamstring injury puts Nathan Jones’ record attempt on hold

A hamstring injury suffered at training on Thursday has delayed Nathan Jones’ bid to break the Melbourne Demons’ games record.

Jones has played his entire AFL career to date with the Demons. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Demons veteran Nathan Jones will miss his side’s round nine clash against Carlton after picking up a leg injury at training on Thursday.

Scans confirmed Jones, who was dropped for Melbourne’s match against Sydney last week, has sustained a minor strain to his hamstring.

The club is yet to confirm the length of the former captain’s lay-off.

Jones made his Demons debut in 2006 and has since played 301 games for the club, putting him just shy of David Neitz’s club record of 306.

After managing only eight games for the season, Jones survived being delisted at the end of 2020 and is now on track to break Neitz’s record — just as soon as his hamstring gives him a chance to crack the Dees’ best 22 again.

On Thursday, Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin said he expects the Blues to reproduce the attacking brand of footy they showed off against the Bulldogs when they meet Melbourne.

“We’re expecting their best,” he told reporters.

“If you watched them last week they were very impressive. They played a quality side and for three quarters they were outstanding.

“Clearly they’re playing a way that’s giving them great scoring opportunity.

“It’s going to be a great battle to see who gets on top.”

Goodwin replaced Paul Roos as the Demons’ coach in 2017. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Melbourne will also be without ruck-forward Luke Jackson for Sunday’s clash, after the youngster picked up a finger injury. Goodwin confirmed he will spend 1-2 weeks on the sideline.

Jackson’s injury opens the door for Sam Weideman to enter the Demons’ forward line for the first time this year.

“He’s ready to play AFL footy. We’re excited by that. He gets his opportunity and we’re looking forward to seeing how he goes,” Goodwin said.