Young GIANTS midfielder Paul Ahern will undergo a knee reconstruction after rupturing his ACL at training this morning.

Scans revealed the need for a surgery on the 19-year-old’s right knee.

Ahern was selected with pick 7 at the 2014 NAB AFL Draft and was a consistent performer for the GIANTS’ reserves side in the NEAFL in 2015.

GIANTS Head of Athletic Performance David Joyce said: “We’re all really disappointed for Paul who’s had a great pre-season and was progressing really well.

“We’ve got Paul’s long term welfare as our first thought so we’ll now look to determine the best course of action to ensure he can return stronger than ever.”

Ahern will meet with a knee specialist this week.