St Kilda have ruled Dan Butler out for the remainder of the 2025 season after the small forward underwent surgery on a dislocated elbow.
The 28-year-old sustained the injury in the Saints’ Round 18 loss to Sydney and, after consultation with a specialist, was sent under the knife on Thursday.
The operation ends what has been a frustrating year for the former Richmond premiership player, limited to just six games and seven goals in his sixth campaign in red, white and black.
“Dislocated elbow … he’s out for the year”
Coach Ross Lyon confirmed the setback on Friday, revealing Butler will now shift his focus to rehabilitation.
“Dislocated elbow, had an operation last night, he's out for the year,” Lyon said. “He’ll get into rehab.”
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Butler’s absence will force a reshuffle ahead of Sunday’s clash with Geelong at GMHBA Stadium. The Saints coach is spoilt for choice after a commanding VFL win from affiliate Sandringham, naming a string of possible inclusions.
“Sandringham had a great win, won by 10 goals against Sydney,” Lyon said. “A lot of our young players and senior players like Cordy and Jones, Wilson and Schoenmaker stood up, so that was really good for us.”
“Dodson had a BOG as a ruckman, so we're thrilled with it.”
Alongside Zaine Cordy and Zak Jones, the likes of Darcy Wilson, Arie Schoenmaker, and Ryan Byrnes are all in line for a recall. Rookie flanker Tobie Travaglia has also been named in the extended squad, while Hugo Garcia (wrist) joins Butler on the sidelines.
Final teams will be confirmed an hour before the 1:10 pm (AEST) bounce on Sunday.