Knights release update on Alex McKinnon’s progress

Injured Newcastle Knights forward Alex McKinnon has been able to stand for the first time since his severe spinal injury in March.

NRL club Newcastle have released a statement on behalf of the 22-year-old, who is continuing his rehabilitation on the Gold Coast.

McKinnon, who sustained the injury in a tackle, has made been able to stand with assistance.

“I remain on the Gold Coast, where I have been for approximately three months as I continue rehabilitation at Making Strides,” said McKinnon.

“I am in the final stages of my current rehabilitation program on the Gold Coast.

“When aided to stand up out of my chair, I am now able to stand for a short amount of time with assistance.

“I am set to return to Newcastle in the coming weeks to commence my new role with the Knights.

“Thank you, as always, for the well wishes and encouragement.”

McKinnon will take up a new role with the Knights later this month, working with head coach Rick Stone, director of football Michael Hagan and high performance coach Troy Pezet 

“That’s going to be a great opportunity for Alex to get his teeth into something he really loves, footy,” Stone told Sky Sports Radio in Australia,

“He’s inspiring young men and everyone in the club will be really happy to see him back.”