Lenehan suffered the injury in the Blues’ round 10 loss against Koroit and is excepted to be out of action until late in the home and away season.

“We are hoping to get him back for round 17,” Warrnambool coach Scott Carter said.

“The crack is just below his knee, at the time when he injured it we didn’t know what is was, it has taken the doctors a while to work out what it is. He was in great form before the injury and he is really highly regarded at the club so we hope the healing process goes smoothly.”

Also injured in the Blues’ clash with Koroit was Nick Chirnside with the onballer tearing a hamstring in what was his 100^th game. Carter said Chirnside is back training and is a week away from resuming playing duties.

A confirmed out for the Blues’ game against Portland this Saturday is defender Sam Wilson who hurt his ankle during the big win over Cobden last week. Upcoming scans will determine the extent of the damage. The medical room at Reid Oval has been frequented all too regularly for the Blues liking. But despite key players missing at different times, Warrnambool still sits on top of the ladder after 12 rounds. Former Adelaide Crows player Tim McIntrye missed six weeks with a hamstring injury but showed his importance kicking seven goals on his return last week.