Ethan Staddon faces long lay-off at Bristol

Bristol Bears have been dealt an early-season injury blow after summer signing Ethan Staddon suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for a lengthy period.

The 24-year-old flanker joined Bristol from West Country rivals Bath ahead of the 2026/27 season but is yet to make his competitive debut for the Bears.

Staddon undergoes surgery after ACL injury

Staddon has undergone surgery after suffering the knee injury, leaving Bristol without one of their more notable summer additions as the new Gallagher PREM season begins.

The back-row forward had been training strongly and pushing for a place in Bristol’s starting side ahead of Saturday’s opening league match away to Sale Sharks.

Bristol had high hopes for former Bath forward

Staddon came through Bath’s academy and made his senior debut in 2020. He was confirmed as Bristol’s first new signing for the 2026/27 season in March.

Lam highlighted Staddon’s potential and versatility when his move was announced, with the forward capable of playing across the back row and providing additional cover in the second row.

Bristol made relatively few additions during the summer, with Lam explaining that the club wanted to retain the core of its existing squad. Staddon had already been pushing for a starting place before suffering the injury.