Tom Hawkins' back problem is permanent

[Ricochet]

http://www.afl.com.au/news/2013-08-20/cat-back-but-back-an-issue

GEELONG forward Tom Hawkins should line up against the Sydney Swans on Saturday afternoon at Simonds Stadium after benefitting from a week of rest.

But the bulging disc issue he has been carrying this season is a permanent problem with the potential to deteriorate over time, leading sports medico Dr Peter Larkins says. 

The 25-year-old has a bulging L4-L5 lumbar disc, which has been causing inflammation around the lower part of his spine.

It creates stiffness in the muscles around the area, and while he has been largely unimpeded during the week he has at times been affected on game day.

[the flying hawk]

So do geelong continue with him well i know that sounds stupid but it obviously affects his game and keeps him down.

[Ricochet]

I would. He still takes the best defender and still has kicked 45 goals for the year

[bunyip]

I would. He still takes the best defender and still has kicked 45 goals for the year

Exactly. He still is an important player. The players know what they have with Tommahawk and play accordingly. I don't know about next season though.

[Cicjose]

Hawkins might have problems in the future
but they do need to look at playing Kersten and Walker with probably one of their ruckmen liike a Vardy or Simpson
as a forward next year

to look at replacements for Pods and Hawkins in the draft assuming both don't have long left

[Dudge]

I'm surprised they keep playing him. I understand it's something he has to play with, but it just doesn't seem to be a winner/advantage at the moment.

[CrowsFan]

Should just play Kersten :)