GWS have been dealt a blow ahead of their maiden grand final with star midfielder Stephen Coniglio ruling himself out of the match.
Coniglio hasn't played since round 17 after suffering a knee injury but has been ramping up his rehab in the hope of playing some part this season.
With the Giants making it all the way to the grand final courtesy of a three gutsy wins, the 25-year-old's chances of featuring improved.
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Unfortunately for the classy on-baller, he hasn't been able to get up in time, ruling himself out on Wednesday, with the club announcing the news on their social media.
"This is a selfless decision by Stephen and typical of the man he is," GWS footy manager Wayne Campbell said.
"He left it all on the training track today and ultimately he decided he doesn’t think he is capable of playing out the whole game and therefore didn’t want to let his team mates down.
"His decision has the full support of everyone and we know he’ll continue to support the team to the best of his ability as he has over the past 10 weeks."
"This is a selfless decision by Stephen and typical of the man he is." 🧡#NeverSurrender
— GWS GIANTS (@GWSGIANTS) September 25, 2019
Coniglio's return would have obviously been a significant boost for GWS, though they have proven over the past month that they are capable of overcoming setbacks.
A thrilling four-point win over Collingwood at the MCG in Saturday's preliminary final, without Coniglio, Lachie Whitfield and Toby Greene will fill them with confidence.
Greene, who was suspended for the Pies clash, will return to face the Tigers, while Whitfield, who had his appendix out last Wednesday, is more likely than not to feature.
It's not just GWS with injury concerns however - Richmond will need to replace hard-nut midfielder Jack Graham who dislocated his shoulder in Friday's win over Geelong.
Youngster Jack Ross is in line to come in, while Nathan Broad, who was concussed against the Cats, looks like getting up in time for the decider.
