Carlton coach Michael Voss and forward Jack Martin will both be missing from the Blues’ Round 2 clash with the Western Bulldogs on Thursday night, after testing positive to COVID-19.
Just hours after the Blues’ stunning triumph over Richmond on Thursday night, Voss and Martin both tested positive to the virus, and will enter a seven-day isolation period.
Assistant coach Ashley Hansen will take the reins in Voss’ stead; in a twist of fate, Hansen was part of the Bulldogs’ coaching staff before heading to Ikon Park at the end of 2021.
Two other members of the Blues’ football department, who have not been named, also tested positive, but Martin is the only player.
It isn’t Voss’ first brush with COVID since taking on the senior role at the Blues: he was forced to miss the first night of last year’s AFL draft after being deemed a close contact to CEO Brian Cook, who tested positive.
“Importantly, Michael, Jack and our staff are feeling well, which is the number one priority here obviously and they will now isolate for the required periods of time,” Blues head of football Brad Lloyd said in a statement on Friday afternoon.
“All had tested negative prior to interacting with the football program, however by today all four had returned a positive result.
“The impact of COVID-19 is still clearly a reality that we remain mindful of, so we will make the necessary adjustments, adapt and remain focused on our goal for the next week – which is preparing for a strong performance next Thursday night.”
The Blues will not need to turn to the AFL’s top-up pool of supplementary players, given only Martin is unavailable.
WCE
Roar Rookie
No it's his life in general mate. Tragic story he can't seem to ever man up and take control of. Don't be like Thom is what he really meant. But seriously all the best champ
Diesel-747
Roar Rookie
A long way to go for Carlton. Footscray V Carlton will be a ripping game. If Bont out gives blues a brighter hope. I’m tipping Blues , only just .. .however When your boys clicks they are very hard to beat chanon . Not sure if the off field hilights from Wednesday last week will add spice to the sons of the west or dampen their zeal. Great match , game of round for mine. Although Richmond V GWS becomes interesting as well.
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Diesel not sure Bont will play probably unlikely :crying:
Kane
Roar Rookie
What doesn't match up in my comments Thom, please enlighten me.
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Hang on your first win since 2012 & now your world beaters :laughing:
Diesel-747
Roar Rookie
Mackay & curnow won’t be held to one Goal again . Will the Bont play? I’m confident carlton matching it with the dogs. 2/0 navy . Dogs could go 0-4 easy . And buddy will kick his 1000th at marvel Rnd3. You should beat the swans . Should ..
Diesel-747
Roar Rookie
Motlop looks a handful- his legs are like tree trunks- very explosive of 10 yards . A real handy dangerous forward .
Kane
Roar Rookie
Why would I want to stalk you, of all people. I haven't really been on here for 6 months but every time I have a look at it you are always having a bit of a sook about something
Thom Roker
Roar Guru
Have you been stalking me again, Kane? It's really creepy. I've made barely 5 comments on this site all week. Wouldn't be the first time you've searched for me across social media.
Kane
Roar Rookie
Where did I say anything about footy Thom? You seem to be offended by a lot lately, has someone touched a nerve or have you realised that you're not as good a journalist as you have claimed to be?
Macca
Roar Rookie
That is obviously worse than a cold but very much like influenza. With vaccines widely available, anti virals developed and better knowledge on how to treat it we have to be close to Kane’s position
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Our record when Nort kicks 5+ is 100% win win scenario :stoked:
PeteB
Roar Rookie
But the Big H will kick 6
Chanon
Roar Rookie
If Nort kicks 5 we will beat your mob, 1-1 a piece :stoked:
PeteB
Roar Rookie
Prepare yourself Chanon for the Dogs to be 0-2
Nick
Roar Guru
I'm not like him. I simply understand the fatigue after tell years. I absolutely disagree with his position that it's just a cold. I am a triple vaccinated healthy individual in his 30's and I was floored by covid Not anywhere near the need for a hospital, but certainly wildly worse off than when I get a cold. I've never been as tired, nor have I ever ever ever had as sore a throat. And my arms would sting in pain after each sneeze.
Chanon
Roar Rookie
Macca l would prefer Voss coaching Carlton than Hansen :laughing:
Chanon
Roar Rookie
I’m not happy Hansen is coaching against his old club he knows more about the dog players than Voss :laughing:
Thom Roker
Roar Guru
Kane thinks footy is more important than the health of the vulnerable in the population. Kane probably cheered for Thanos in Avengers. Don't be like Kane.
Nick Maguire
Roar Rookie
:laughing: Well we were chasing but perhaps didn't get to be close personal contacts!