Jack Darling's AFL career is in limbo for now after the West Coast star failed to meet league vaccination guidelines.
As the AFL and other sports reel from the WA government's announcement that its hard borders will remain beyond February 5, the Eagles have announced that Darling is training away from the team.
West Coast added in their Friday statement that they are "optimistic" he will return to the team.
"Jack Darling has not adhered to the AFL's COVID-19 training and playing mandates and therefore - under the AFL rules - he will be unable to attend the club's facility ... and by extension any club training sessions," the Eagles said.
"While Jack will take some time to assess his future he will train independently of the remainder of the squad."
Under league rules, all players and staff at the two WA teams must have had two jabs by Friday to continue training at club facilities.
Defender Liam Jones quit Carlton late last year because of the AFL vaccination guidelines.
Earlier this month, it was also revealed North Melbourne midfielder Jed Anderson is yet to have his second COVID-19 vaccination and has not returned from Darwin for the pre-season.
Late on Thursday night, WA Premier Mark McGowan announced that the state would not reopen its borders on February 5 as planned.
Instead, the hard border rules will remain indefinitely.
That is a major worry for competitions such as the AFL and the A-Leagues and also the NRL's State of Origin.
