Eagles veteran winged again

West Coast defender Beau Waters won't return to the AFL this season after re-injuring his right shoulder yesterday.

The West Australian understands Waters will undergo surgery in the next three or four weeks after his troublesome shoulder popped out again during training.

The 28-year-old an operation to correct the issue last year, but had to have pins and plates removed earlier than expected after they became infected in January.

He had originally been expected to return to football through the WAFL later this month, but is now unlikely to play at all in 2014.

Waters is contracted next season.

He resigned himself to requiring further medical intervention with the knowledge he would be unable to fudge his way through the rest of the season in the combative world of Australian football – particularly in light of the way he plays.

“Obviously it is very disappointing for Beau,” football manager Craig Vozzo said today.

“Ideally, he would have been able to play without the need for surgery, but given the circumstances there appears no choice.

“It seems most likely that he will undergo surgery in the next few weeks and that he will miss the season.

“It’s very unfortunate for him, but as he has done so many times, we expect he will soldier on, have the surgery and then go through a meticulous rehabilitation program to be back to full health as soon as possible.”

Waters, a member of the 2006 premiership team, has been a valued member and leader within the West Coast playing list and will doubtless enjoy the support of his teammates as he works his way back from the latest setback.