Adelaide captain Taylor Walker and forward Riley Knight have been ruled out of Friday night’s clash with the Western Bulldogs.

Walker has been restricted in his ability to get through training and games in recent weeks, following a limited pre-season due to injury.

He will now undergo a conditioning program over the next few weeks, with a view to returning to action once fully fit.

Meantime, Knight requires ongoing management due to hamstring tendinitis and will be monitored over the coming weeks.

Crows Head of Football Brett Burton said the Club wanted to give both players the best chance of performing at a high level in second half of season.

“It’s obviously not an ideal situation but once again shows the importance of completing a full preseason, which both Taylor and Riley were unable to do due to injuries,” Burton said.