Gold Coast SUNS defender Rory Thompson will be in a moon boot for the next seven days after suffering a “turf toe” injury at training on Monday.

Thompson stubbed his toe in a marking contest with fellow defender Henry Schade and as a result, is expected to be on a modified training program for the next month before recommencing full training.

“Turf toe” is the common term used to describe a sprain of the ligaments around the big toe joint.

Thompson carried a hip injury for much of last season, but still locked down a key defensive post alongside Steven May.

The 24-year-old battled through many of his 19 games, lacking the agility that had helped him to a breakout 2013 season.

Standing 200cm, Thompson is blessed with terrific speed that can close down his opponent’s leads and, when fully fit, is nimble enough to mark much smaller men.

He and May promise to be one of the best defensive pairings in the AFL for many years to come.