North Melbourne has pushed back Sam Wright’s expected return from an ankle injury after the defender experienced a “low-level stress reaction” in his foot.

After weeks of encouraging progression including over-ground running, Wright reported some discomfort according to Senior Performance Consultant Steve Saunders.

“Scans confirmed there was a minor issue with his sesamoid following the surgery to his syndesmosis [ankle],” Saunders explained.

“We picked this problem up nice and early and Sam will now have a slower than initially expected recovery period. We are taking a very measured approach to his rehabilitation and will graduate his over-ground running loads in the coming weeks.

“Our focus has always been on making sure he returns fully fit and is able to have a significant impact.”

As a result, Wright is now expected to return between Rounds 10-13.

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