Clean break boosts watson's draft hopes

Dale MillerThe West Australian Draft prospect Francis Watson is facing a three-month recovery from a broken leg in an outcome that is not expected to kill off his AFL chances. The

19-year-old was in agony after suffering the break during the third quarter of Claremont’s 10-point loss to West Perth at HBF Arena on Saturday, raising fears the skilful defender may be in

for a lengthy rehabilitation period extending into next year. Scans have since revealed a clean break to the tibia and fibula bones above his left ankle — a positive diagnosis. Watson will

have surgery this week once the swelling has gone down. Claremont football manager Darcy Coffey said the teenager was expected to be in a cast for up to six weeks, followed by a

rehabilitation program of a similar length to regain his fitness. “It obviously puts him out for the season, but it’s not a really nasty one which some of the other guys have had in the

past,” Coffey said. “He doesn’t need extensive surgery at this stage. It (his AFL chances) was the first thing that came across my mind, so hopefully it doesn’t deter people from wanting to

grab him, particularly if he’s only going to miss three months.” Watson, who hails from Halls Creek in the Kimberley, was overlooked in last year’s AFL national and rookie drafts. He had

boosted his chances of being selected this year with several breakout games for Claremont’s league side, averaging 16 disposals and five marks in nine matches. GET THE LATEST NEWS FROM

THEWEST.COM.AU IN YOUR INBOX. Sign up for our emails