Fremantle ruckman Aaron Sandilands says another player will step-up and fill the void left by injured star defender Michael Johnson.
Johnson will miss eight to 10 weeks with a hamstring injury after he was subbed out of his milestone 200th game against Richmond on Friday.
While initially expected to miss three weeks, the club revised that on Monday.
“It’s disappointing for Johnno but it gives someone else an opportunity,” Sandilands said.
He said there are a number of players who are candidates to replace Johnson.
“We’ve got a lot of guys that can fill that role,” Sandilands said.
“We have some guys in good form in the WAFL plus some of our forwards can play back as well.”
Young defender Alex Pearce is among those under consideration and Sandilands said he had proved he could play his role during his debut in Round 6.
“He’s a great young player…he’s a young man with an old man’s brain,” he said.
“He’s held in high regard, as are a lot of young players at this club.
“There is a broad range of guys who could come in and play the role.
“I’m pretty sure the back six will work together and get the job done.”
Fremantle play Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium Saturday 13 June. Bounce down is at 1.40pm local time.
