Skipper Nigel Boogaard will miss Newcastle Jets' FFA Cup clash against Gold Coast Knights after suffering concussion-like symptoms after a collision in a match during the club's tour of Spain.
Boogaard left the field of play early in the Jets' clash with Shabab Al-Ahli FC following a collision when challenging for the ball.
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While he was assessed by club medical staff and passed the necessary tests to continue to play, the 31-year-old was suffering from concussion-like symptoms and was immediately substituted for further assessment.
“The collision itself didn't seem all that serious at the time, but Nigel had some delayed concussion symptoms and we immediately got him off the pitch,” Jets boss Ernie Merrick said.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s a pre-season friendly or a Grand Final – any issues around concussion must be taken seriously.”
“We’re not in the business of taking any risks with this sort of stuff, Nigel’s welfare is paramount in this situation and we wanted to ensure the best care possible,” Merrick added.
“He’s been cleared of any serious injury, but we’ll continue to monitor his progress.”
Boogaard was immediately ruled out of the club's last two matches in Spain and won't be risked for the FFA Cup Round of 32 clash against the Knights.
