Western Bulldogs key defender Zaine Cordy has been ruled out of Sunday’s match against Carlton after specialists confirmed a minor fracture to his frontal sinus.

Cordy was taken to hospital following the incident in the second quarter, after the boot of Kangaroos’ forward Ben Brown collided with his forehead.

Bulldogs’ Medical Services Manager Chris Bell told westernbulldogs.com.au that the Club will be cautious with the 21-year-old before giving him the all-clear to return.

“Zaine suffered an injury in the second quarter of the game where an opposition’s boot landed on his forehead,” said Bell.

“This contact has caused a minor crack to the frontal sinus in his head.

“We’ve consulted with a specialist today and we will manage Zaine conservatively.

“He won’t play this week but we’ll work with a specialist to determine his availability for next week.”

The Bulldogs are set to regain skipper Easton Wood this week, who has not played since suffering a hamstring injury in Round 13.

“Easton has been fantastic in his recovery following his high-grade hamstring injury,” Bell said.

“He really has left no stone unturned in trying to get back this season.

“He completed our final measures on the weekend in terms of his training loads and he’ll come back into full training this week.

“If he gets through full training as we expect, he’ll be available this weekend.”

Defender Roarke Smith could also be available for selection after he missed the Dogs’ win over North Melbourne.