CHRISTIAN Salem’s return to footy has been delayed due to a knee injury.

The 27-year-old, who has been recovering from a thyroid issue, was sent for a scan on Friday after experiencing some soreness in his left knee. 


Melbourne’s GM of AFL Performance Alan Richardson provided an update, with the defender now unavailable for the Casey Demons’ season-opener.


“Christian has suffered an injury to his left knee and won’t be available to play in Casey’s VFL match on Saturday as planned,” Richardson told Melbourne Media.


“He experienced some soreness following the main training session earlier in the week and scans have today revealed a small tear in his meniscus.

“We are still gathering further information and will be in a better position next week to understand what his rehabilitation program looks like.”