Adelaide captain Rory Sloane will miss the remainder of the season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee.

Sloane came from the ground after a contest in the final quarter of Saturday night’s win over Richmond at Adelaide Oval and subsequent scans on Sunday have confirmed the injury.

The 32-year-old is expected to have reconstructive surgery in the coming week before beginning his rehabilitation and road back to footy.

Adelaide High Performance Manager Darren Burgess said it was a significant blow for both Sloane and the team but he praised the captain’s positive outlook on the situation.

“After initial assessment of Rory’s knee on Saturday night we feared this might be the case and unfortunately scans have confirmed it,” Burgess said.

“Obviously it is bitterly disappointing for both Sloaney and the team, he is one of our most important players and as our captain his influence on what we do is obvious.

“But typical of his character he is already speaking positively about the challenge in front of him and I have no doubt he will attack his rehabilitation the same way he approaches his football – with the utmost professionalism and determination and we look forward to him returning to the field next year.”

Sloane said while disappointed with the injury he was determined to continue helping the team off the field.

“For me at 32 doing a knee is not ideal but it’s a great challenge to come back fitter and healthier, it’s a little reset on the body for me to go again,” Sloane said.

“I’ve seen my sister Shae go through it before and I have been inspired by her positive attitude and diligent approach to her rehabilitation.

“Saturday night was an incredible result for us as a team, we’ve been building and that was a good, solid grind against a quality side, so while I’m obviously disappointed I won’t be on the field for the rest of the season I will be doing everything I can off it to help us keep improving.”