Jack Hayes’ return to football has suffered a delay after scans this afternoon confirmed a metatarsal break.

The 26-year-old left the training track earlier today after injuring his left foot.  

“Jack has been dealt a really rough hand since debuting last season,” Performance, Medical and Operations Manager David Misson said.

“Jack had just returned to full training after completing his ACL rehabilitation, so for this to happen is very disappointing.

“The recovery period for an injury like this is typically between 8 to 10 weeks.

“His resilience has been unfairly tested for an athlete so early in his career, but we know that he will attack his rehab in the same professional manner we have become accustomed to.”

Hayes will undergo surgery to stabilise the injured foot tomorrow.