Tributes pour in for McKinnon

The Rugby League world has offered its condolences to Alex McKinnon and his family, after the Newcastle forward suffered a shocking injury.

McKinnon, 22, landed awkwardly in a tackle and fractured his neck during the Knights’ defeat to Melbourne on Monday.

The former St George second-row had emergency surgery early on Tuesday morning to stabilise his neck, which consisted of a disc removal at C4 and C5 of the vertebrae and anterior fusion.

McKinnon remains in intensive care and doctors have explained that recovery could take up to two years.

Storm player Jordan McLean, who was part of the three-man tackle alongside Jesse and Kenny Bromwich, has had his judiciary hearing delayed until next week out of respect for the McKinnon family. McLean will however be stood down for this weekend’s match with Canterbury.

Super League clubs such as Leeds and London have wished McKinnon well on Twitter, and they are joined by a host of NRL players and fans.

Cronulla’s Luke Lewis (@LukeLewis1983) tweeted: “Thoughts and prayers for Alex McKinnon and his family.”

Matt Cooper (@mattcooper44), a teammate of McKinnon at the Dragons, tweeted: “Thoughts are with @mckinnon92 hope for a speedy recovery brother…”

NRL CEO Dave Smith (@DaveSmithNRL) also took to Twitter with the following message – which was echoed by a number of fans:

“Thoughts & best wishes to Alex McKinnon & his family @NRLKnights. Rugby League will do whatever it can to support during tough time.”