With Sutton Medallist Tom Liberatore now sidelined for the 2015 season, ruckman Will Minson has looked philosophically at the challenge presented to fill the midfield void that has been left.

In an interview with radio station SEN, Minson reflected that while the outcome is disappointing for both the Club and Liberatore, it will give several young players the opportunity to step up into a more permanent midfield role.

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“It couldn’t have been a worse outcome for Libba because it doesn’t matter what kind of injury it is, nobody likes to get injured in the NAB Cup, and certainly nobody likes to get injured when they’re going to be out for the whole year.

“We acknowledge Tom’s a pretty special footballer but there’s guys at the footy club that will now get extra time and extra opportunity.”

Someone who can empathise with Liberatore is young Dog Clay Smith, who is coming to the end of his rehabilitation after two consecutive knee reconstructions.

Minson likened the pair on field and says Smith has the potential to take on a similar role to Liberatore’s.

“(Smith) plays a bit like Libba, really hard at it, ferocious, never say die attitude, pretty tough in and under so that would be a great opportunity for Clay.”

But Minson stressed that while Liberatore was a big loss, the Club’s optimism ahead of the season would not be dispelled.

“Aside from this setback with Tom, the Club will keep going forward as far as having a good off-season and getting ready for round one.”