KEY DEFENDER Toby Thurstans is expected to miss about a month after straining the medial ligament in his knee.

Thurstans, who has played 43 consecutive games, suffered the injury in the last quarter of Port Adelaide’s 12-point capitulation to Carlton on Sunday night.

In better news, youngster Paul Stewart, who was taken from the ground on a stretcher, is expected to be given the all clear after suffering a heavy knock to the neck.

Carlton’s Jordan Russell was reported for the alleged ‘forceful’ blow, which left Stewart concussed and needing a neck brace. Stewart was taken to hospital for precautionary scans, but the club is confident there is no structural damage.

Coach Mark Williams also suggested a rest might be in order for battle weary utility Chad Cornes. Cornes shattered his finger in the round six clash with St Kilda and has been playing under duress for the past three weeks.

Cornes conceded Sunday night’s game was ‘probably his worst ever’, but Williams hinted it was another injury, rather than the finger, that had affected Cornes’ performance.

“Chad probably played his worst game ever, but to be fair he’s injured,” Williams said.

“We’re playing him injured and we might have to reassess that decision.”

The Power are set to regain Shaun Burgoyne from suspension next week, but forward Brett Ebert will need to prove his fitness on the track before being considered for a recall from his sprained ankle.