North Melbourne have suffered an injury blow with just over one week until the 2023 season kicks off, with defender Ben McKay dealing with bone stress in his right foot.
McKay will be sidelined for the beginning of the season, with the Kangaroos set to face West Coast next Saturday afternoon in Round 1.
"Ben's pre-season preparation has been seamless, so this is unfortunate news on the eve of Round 1," general manager of football Todd Viney said in a club statement.
"Our immediate focus is to ensure Ben's symptoms settle. His rehab program will continue to evolve with the aim to integrate him back into the training program in due course."
McKay managed 15 games for North in 2022, averaging 4.1 intercept marks per game, sidelined mid-season as he dealt with a knee injury.
The 25-year-old is heading into an important season, with the highly sought-after free agent reportedly set to make a decision on his playing future during the year after spending eight seasons at North.
McKay has played 52 games for North since his debut in 2017, becoming a key figure at the rebuilding club.
The Kangaroos are also dealing with injury concerns surrounding young gun Cam Zurhaar, who is in doubt for the season opener after suffering a calf strain in the club's practice match against the Western Bulldogs.
North Melbourne's season gets underway on Saturday, March 18 against the Eagles at Marvel Stadium.