Rutten surgery

[Cruiseon]

I seem to be the bringer of bad news today, but the Crows really need a fit Rutten especially as one of the few left with solid experience.

http://www.afl.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/208/newsid/128329/default.aspx

Who'll fill the gap up back if he has a slow start to the season?

[CrowsFan]

Read about that earlier today. They were saying he will be out for 6 weeks, but they still expect him to be fit for the round 1 clash with Gold Coast.
I really hope they are right, a Crow team without Rutten is just not right!

[McRooster]

Truck will be back, tough as.

Talia to take the Pivot, Johncock to play general, giving Luke Thompson another chance to step up. This probably allows  Lewis Johnston and Tambling better opportunities to roll through the midfield with Otten, Doughty and Petrenko (who is looking huge) in defensive mid roles.
Mckernan can go back (and probably will, giving more fwd space to Tippett and Walker) - sad that James Sellar has gone, could've taken Rutten role.
Plenty of options down back.

[DG]

yeah hopefully back for round 1, but like roost said, would open up a few oppurtunities for some kids, although i think otten himself may be pushing it to be back by round 1 too.

I am quite interested to see what we do with Tambling, Johnston and Lynch, all could be given roles almost anywhere on the park, and in Tamblings case, surely it's his last chance which is very unfortunate given his talent

[Purple 77]

Really admire Rutten. One of the most underrated in the game. Crows can't make any sort of serious challenge without him with  Bock and Davis gone

[McRooster]

Hasn't played NAB and until yesterday was still touted to miss rnd1.

Buuuutt..today it was revealed that a scan of his foot on Monday has given him the all clear and has trained fully with the main group. Sando has said he will play against GC.

[CrowsFan]

Hooray :D