Kangaroos star Robbie Tarrant has undergone a procedure to repair an injury to his foot, delaying his start to the 2020 season.
It is understood that Tarrant is suffering from Morton's neuroma - a state of pain in the ball of your foot - and had undergone the procedure last week. The procedure is known to be quite painful, with a needle injected directly into the affected area.
Tarrant is likely to return to a light training routine next week, meaning he is in doubt for North Melbourne's opening Marsh Community Series match against the Western Bulldogs in over a weeks time.
The Kangaroos have another two games scheduled after their first hitout of the preseason, with the club hopeful that Tarrant will be fit to compete in their match against the Demons on February 28 at Arden Street.
North's final game of the Marsh Community Shield will take place in Hobart against the Swans on March 9.
Tarrant was tipped to lead the Kangaroos new-look backline in 2020 after the retirement of fellow defender Scott Thompson.
The delayed start to Tarrant's season could mean opportunities for inexperienced players such as Sam Durdin and Ben McKay.
The Kangaroos will be keen to give the pair some much needed time at AFL level while they will also look to welcome back Majak Daw to their defense.
Free agent recruit Josh Walker arrived at Arden Street from the Lions in the off-season, with Rhyce Shaw hopeful he too can break into the starting lineup.