Melbourne City FC defender Ivan Franjic has been ruled out for an indefinite period after suffering a virus during pre-season.
In a statement from the club’s media department, it was confirmed that the virus has caused inflammation surrounding the 28-year-old’s heart and as a result, can not train or take part in any of the FFA Cup or upcoming A-League campaign until further notice.
While the news is a blow in the short term for City, the Socceroo is expected to make a full recovery, and is currently under care of a specialist cardiologist to treat the virus.
The defender made 18 appearances under John Van’t Schip since joining from Brisbane Roar at the end of the 2014-15 campaign.
As an attack-minded full-back, Franjic was credited with four assists last term, helping City to a fourth placed finish. In the finals series, City advanced to the semi final stage for the second year running, after picking up a deserved 2-0 victory against Perth Glory, before coming undone against Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium, losing 4-1.
Melbourne City’s next match is in the FFA Cup against Brisbane Strikers on August 24 at Perry Park.
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