Stabbing scare for Cats star

GEELONG AFL midfielder Jack Steven remained in hospital last night while recovering from what was believed to be a stab wound to his chest.

Victoria Police were investigating the matter after being notified by hospital staff.

The Cats released a statement yesterday saying: “The club is aware that

Jack Steven (pictured) was injured in an incident last night.

“Jack is in hospital and recovering. The club’s concern is for Jack’s health and well being.

“The matter has been referred to police and until their investigations are completed the club will not be in position to offer further comment.”

Geelong premiership captain Cameron Ling was rocked by the news and said he had spoken to the club.

“At his best he is a wonderful footballer and he came to the Cats looking for a change of scenery to reinvigorate his love of the game,” Ling said.

“He has battled mental health issues and worked through those and … all reports from the club were he was training hard through the summer until the season stopped because of coronavirus.

“He was excited about what the season held for him. We don’t know many details other than that footy is the furthest thing from his mind and his family’s mind.”

The 30-year-old was traded to the Cats last October after a decorated 183-game career with St Kilda, where he won four best-and-fairest awards.

Steven didn’t play in Geelong’s Round 1 loss against GWS in March before the AFL season was suspended.