Melbourne have confirmed new recruit Tom Fullarton will miss up to two months of action due to a recent hamstring injury.
The setback was sustained last week at training, with the former Lion hurting the tendon in his left hamstring and will now require an extended period on the sidelines.
The fortunate news for Fullarton is that the 24-year-old won't require surgery, with the damage grade listed as moderate-high.
Speaking to Melbourne Media, Demons football boss Alan Richardson confirmed the extent of Fullarton's injury.
"Tom unfortunately sustained an injury to his left hamstring during Friday's training session," Richardson said.
"Scans have shown a moderate-high grade injury to the muscle, with involvement of the tendon.
"The good news is Tom won't require surgery. He will have to work through a thorough rehab program, which, at this stage, will see him return to full fitness in six to eight weeks."
Fullarton joined the Demons during the recent off-season from Brisbane, requesting a trade to Melbourne after five seasons in Queensland.
The tall forward/ruck played 19 games for the Lions during his time with the club, with his most recent appearance coming against his new side via a semi-final win in 2022.
Melbourne are already without fellow forward Ben Brown for close to two months as the premiership Demon deals with a knee issue.
The club's first game of the home and away season is scheduled for Thursday, March 7 at the SCG against Sydney to open the home and away draw.