The GIANTS have suffered a double midfield blow with Ryan Griffen and Will Setterfield both suffering syndesmosis injuries on the weekend that will keep the pair sidelined for up to 10 weeks.

Griffen sustained the high ankle injury in the second term of Saturday’s match in Hobart against North Melbourne while Setterfield was injured later in the day in the NEAFL match at Blacktown International Sportspark.

GIANTS Head of Athletic Performance David Joyce said: “These are disappointing setbacks for Ryan and Will at this early stage of the season. 

“Both players are currently in protective boots and we are mapping out the most appropriate management plans for them over the coming days.” 

Co-captain Phil Davis has recovered well from a heavy hit late in the North Melbourne game and is expected to line up in Canberra. 

Meanwhile, Stephen Coniglio (ankle), Brett Deledio (calf) and Tendai Mzungu (hamstring) remain unavailable due to injury and Lachie Whitfield is sidelined until round eight due to suspension.

In better news, recruit Matt De Boer is expected to be available for selection this weekend having overcome a hamstring injury.