Western Bulldogs star Tom Liberatore has been ruled out “indefinitely” after suffering a nasty concussion in his side’s seven-point loss to Hawthorn on Sunday.
The midfielder copped a stray boot to his head, which split open his forehead in scary scenes.
Liberatore’s head was split open and he was helped off the ground by club doctors.
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“The midfielder suffered a knock to the head late in Sunday’s loss to Hawthorn, with the club’s medical team confirming that a concussive episode had occurred,” the Bulldogs statement said.
It’s the 31-year-old’s second concussion within weeks, after he was ruled out when he suffered a terrifying collapse against Essendon in April.
“Having suffered two concussions within a short space of time, Tom will be unavailable for an indefinite period as the club works through a thorough process before a return-to-play plan is determined,” the club said
“Tom’s health and wellbeing always remains the absolute priority during this period.”
Liberatore suddenly collapsed in the centre square during the final term at Marvel Stadium as play continued downfield. Opposing midfielder Darcy Parish immediately came to his aid — clearly concerned for the star’s wellbeing.
The collapse occurred just minutes after Liberatore was crunched by Bomber Jake Stringer.
Despite Bulldogs club doctors clearing Liberatore of concussion after he passed the head injury assessment at the time, as well as showing no signs of delayed head trauma the morning after, the club ruled him out until round eight.
The 2016 premiership player was then subsequently injured in his return match.
It’s his fourth concussion in 12 months.
Liberatore would not have been available to face Richmond in round nine anyway, after he was offered a one-match suspension for a dangerous tackle on Hawk Will Day.
