GIANTS star Stephen Coniglio has avoided surgery but is set to miss the next month of football as he recovers from a shoulder injury suffered on Saturday. 

The GIANTS vice-captain dislocated his right shoulder in the opening quarter of Saturday’s four-point win over the Cats at GMHBA Stadium. 

The tough midfielder was assessed immediately following the incident and made a return to the field but was later subbed out part way through the second quarter.  

Following scans and consultation with a specialist on Tuesday, surgery has been avoided and the 30-year-old has already begun a four-to-six week rehabilitation program. 

The GIANTS will also be without Harry Perryman for the next 2-3 games after the defender sustained a hamstring injury in the final moments of Saturday’s game. 

Emerging ruckman Nick Madden also suffered a match-ending ankle injury in Saturday’s VFL loss to Geelong. 

Scans on Sunday confirmed a high-grade syndesmosis injury, with the 204cm rookie set to undergo surgery later this week. A timeline on his return will be determined after the surgery. 

GIANTS Head of Medical James Rahme said: 

“We’re pleased with the outcome and plan for Stephen following discussions with the specialist this morning. 

“Stephen is an extremely diligent athlete in his approach to rehab and will attack his rehab with his usual professionalism. 

“It’s also disappointing for Harry and we look forward to getting him back a couple of weeks after the bye.” 

The GIANTS have the bye in both the AFL and VFL this week.  

Injury List – May 28