Defender Andrew McPherson will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury following an incident in Saturday’s SANFL win over North Adelaide.

The 23-year-old has avoided surgery but will be in a knee brace for the next 4-6 weeks before progressing to the next stage of his rehabilitation.

McPherson came from the ground after a tackle in the second quarter of the game in Whyalla and scans confirmed damage to his left posterior cruciate ligament.

Crows High Performance Manager Darren Burgess said it was disappointing news for both McPherson and the Club.

“As it turns out he’s done a significant PCL injury and he won’t require surgery but he will be out for the rest of the season,” Burgess said.

“It’s really disappointing for Andrew, he’s had a bit of an interrupted season so his recovery will be between 4-6 weeks in a brace and then start to get moving after that, so all eyes will be on next pre-season.”

Luke Brown missed the game on Saturday with a minor knee injury which is expected to sideline him again this week.

“He’s still experiencing some discomfort in his knee, he’s running pretty well at the moment and we anticipate he’ll be training either late this week or early next week and be available shortly after that,” Burgess said.

Josh Rachele will miss a third consecutive week as he recovers from a hip injury.

“Josh is moving really well, we anticipate he’ll be training late this week and if not then early next week and should only miss this weekend’s game.

“We’re having to hold him back a little bit, he’s pretty enthusiastic and is doing everything we ask and more so he’s right on track to be back in a week.”

Injury list as of Tuesday, July 19:

Josh Rachele (hip) 1 week
Luke Brown (knee) 1-2 weeks
Andrew McPherson (knee) season
Rory Sloane (knee) season
Paul Seedsman (concussion) season