Quade Cooper prepared for long recovery after another injury setback

Australia fly-half Quade Cooper says he is prepared for a long recovery period following his latest injury setback.

Cooper sustained an Achilles tendon injury during the Rugby Championship opener against Argentina an had to leave the field at the start of the second half.

“Ready and prepared for this journey,” he wrote on his Instagram account.

“Doesn’t mean it will be easy but I know I’ve prepared myself for the challenge ahead by building systems and habits to guide me through each obstacle on my path.”

This is Cooper's second injury in recent times as a calf strain ruled him out of the series against England.

He now joins the likes of Samu Kerevi, Angus Bell, Andrew Kellaway, Scott Sio, Tom Banks and skipper Michael Hooper on the sidelines.

“Want to thank both my teammates and the Argentinian players for their support and care when I got injured,” he added.

“My teammates who continue to help me learn and grow each day I will miss you all but be supporting your journey as I continue mine. Our coaches for believing in me and continuing to push my growth.

“Our medical team who put so much time and energy into each and everyone of us. To the fans your (messages) of support have not gone I noticed.”