Collingwood forward Brody Mihocek will undergo surgery on a torn pectoral tendon, with the procedure placing the Magpie in doubt to return to the field this year.
Mihocek suffered the injury in the fourth quarter of Friday's loss to Essendon and did not return to the game, with the premiership Magpie coming from the field in some pain.
The club has since confirmed that Mihocek will miss the remainder of the home and away season, which will mean he is sidelined for at least seven more weeks.
โThis is disappointing news for Brody who is set to miss the remainder of the home-and-away season,โ General Manager of Football Brendon Bolton said in a club statement.
โIt is unfortunate for Brody who has already spent some time on the sidelines this season.
โBrody is a resilient person, and we have no doubt he and our high-performance team will be proactive in taking every step possible to ensure the best recovery.
โHe is expected to have surgery in the coming days and our program will continue to support him through this next period.โ
Having not ruled out a return through finals come September, Mihocek could return to the field should the reigning premiers amass a top eight finish.
Collingwood began Round 18 in the finals frame but could fall as low as 12th come the conclusion of the weekend's events.
