An AFL umpire has issued an apology to Brisbane young gun Levi Ashcroft after an expletive was directed at him during last week's match simulation against Gold Coast.

During the fourth period, Ashcroft was met solidly by fellow draftee Leo Lombard in the play, prompting the father-son gun to request a free-kick.

Despite his pleas, the umpire refused to be swayed by Ashcroft, with reports indicating that the adjudicator had responded regrettably.

"The ump directed an expletive towards Lions young gun Levi Ashcroft," Channel 7's Mitch Cleary said.

"Ashcroft argued for a free kick in an incident with Leo Lombard.

"The umpire later admitted he overstepped the mark, the next day, an apology was issued and accepted by Ashcroft.

"The umpire avoided any sanction."

It is not clear what the umpire had said.

Although Ashcroft copped the knock, it was Lombard who came off second best, resulting in a shoulder injury.

There is no exact timeline on when last year's Pick 9 selection will be available, but the Suns confirmed that Lombard will miss the opening rounds of the 2025 season.

"After receiving the scan results, Leo will consult with a specialist this week to determine the best course of action for his injury," Gold Coast physiotherapist Lindsay Bull said.

"We will prioritise Leo's long-term health so expect he will miss some time as he rehabilitates his shoulder, with a timeline to be determined in due course."

The Suns will kick off their AFL season without Lombard on March 8 at People First Stadium against Essendon.