West Coastย forward Jamie Cripps will miss the early rounds of the 202 season after suffering a pectoral injury last Friday.
The 29-year-old left the Lathlain Park track after tearing his pectoral muscle in a contest at training, sparking concerns for Adam Simpson ahead of Round 1.
The Eagles confirmed the diagnosis of Cripps' setback on Monday, with the veteran forward now set to undergo surgery.
"West Coast Eagles forward Jamie Cripps will be sent for scans after suffering a right shoulder injury on Friday at Mineral Resources Park," West Coast said in a club statement last week.
"Cripps walked from the field after an incident during contested training and took not further part in the session."
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The injury comes just over a month out from the Eagles' season opener against Gold Coast at Optus Stadium, with Simpson already having to shift around magnets this off-season.
West Coast bid farewell to Brad Sheppard and Daniel Venables late last year after the pair called time on their careers due to ongoing battles with concussion.
Spearhead forward Jack Darling is currently facing an uncertain future as the premiership tall remains unvaccinated, while captain Luke Shuey is battling a leg injury this pre-season.
The Eagles have invited several state league players to train for the Supplemental Selection Period, with former Fremantle pair Hugh Dixon and Luke Strnadica among those fighting for a list spot at West Coast.
Simpson's side will also clash with the Dockers on two occasions as part of their pre-season schedule.
