Lyon Lauds King After Saint’s Latest AFL Injury Setback St Kilda coach Ross Lyon has expressed his admiration for veteran ruckman Paddy King after the 23-year-old suffered another setback in his injury-plagued career. King, who has endured a string of concussions in recent years, was diagnosed with a fresh head knock during the Saints’ pre-season match against Melbourne last Friday. Despite the news being a blow to both King and the club, Lyon praised the young player’s resilience and professionalism. “Paddy is a true warrior,” Lyon said. “He’s been through a lot in the past few years, but he never gives up. He’s a great role model for our young players.” King, who has played 52 AFL games for St Kilda, has been forced to sit out several seasons due to concussion-related issues. Lyon admitted that it was frustrating for both the player and the club, but he remained confident that King could overcome this latest setback. “It’s obviously disappointing for Paddy, but we’re all behind him,” Lyon added. “He’s a tough kid, and I know he’ll get through this. We just need to give him the time and support he needs to recover.” Lyon also acknowledged the importance of player welfare and concussion protocols in the AFL. “We have to be very careful with concussions,” Lyon said. “It’s a serious issue, and we need to make sure that our players are protected. Paddy’s health is our priority, and we won’t rush him back until he’s fully fit.” King is expected to meet with specialists in the coming days to determine the severity of his latest injury and the next steps in his recovery.St Kilda Aims to Nurture Max King’s Potential Amid SetbacksSt Kilda Aims to Nurture Max King’s Potential Amid Setbacks Following season-ending injuries to Charlie Curnow and Adam Goodes, St Kilda coach Ross Lyon has emphasized the club’s unwavering commitment to Max King’s long-term success. Despite ongoing speculation about King’s future, Lyon declared that the key forward was integral to the Saints’ plans. He cited Curnow’s triumph over knee injuries as an example of how adversity can ultimately lead to greatness. The club remains optimistic about King’s potential, noting that he is statistically ahead of Geelong’s Tom Hawkins at the same age. Lyon highlighted King’s determination and resilience, emphasizing that despite his struggles, he has never shown a lack of effort. Lyon also praised King’s life outside of football, stating that the player understands that there is more to life than the sport. Lyon’s statements effectively quashed rumors that King might be traded, declaring that the Saints are “really bullish about what he’ll deliver long-term.” Meanwhile, the club’s future with Josh Battle remains unclear following a meeting between Lyon and the player. Lyon acknowledged Battle’s value but stated that he had a decision to make. St Kilda has made five changes for its upcoming match against Sydney, with King among the players to be sidelined. Ryan Byrnes, Dougal Howard, Mattaes Phillipou, Tim Membrey, and Ben Paton have been brought in as replacements.Lyon Lauds King After Saint’s Latest AFL Injury Setback St Kilda coach Ross Lyon praised Jack King’s resilience after the young Saint suffered another injury setback. King, 21, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, the latest in a string of fitness issues that have plagued his career. “It’s incredibly frustrating for him, but he’s shown great courage and resilience,” Lyon said. “He’s a tough kid, and he’ll come back stronger from this.” King has played just 14 games in three seasons at St Kilda, with injuries limiting his impact. Despite the setbacks, Lyon believes King has the potential to be a key player for the Saints. “He’s a talented footballer with great character,” Lyon said. “We’re all behind him, and we can’t wait to see him back on the field.” King is expected to miss the next few weeks of football, but Lyon is confident he will return to full fitness soon. “He’s a hard worker, and he’s determined to get back out there,” Lyon said.