Adelaide captain Taylor Walker has been ruled out of the Club’s Round One clash with Essendon.

Walker is recovering from a foot injury suffered during the pre-season.

Crows General Manager of High Performance Matt Hass said Walker was getting close to selection.

“Taylor strained his plantar fascia about six weeks ago and since then has done everything he could to get up in time for Round One,” Hass said.

“He started training with the main group last week and looked really good.

“Unfortunately, he hasn’t quite done enough to be available for Friday night.

"It’s a long season and given the importance of Taylor to our playing group we didn’t think it was worth the risk.

“He will build up his training loads with the aim of being available for Round Two.”

A full injury update will be issued on Tuesday afternoon.