Taylor Garner’s luckless run with injury has continued with the dynamic young forward out for up to six weeks with a fractured thumb.

The 21-year-old copped a knock to the hand when he was playing for North Ballarat in the VFL on Saturday at Simonds Stadium against Geelong.

“It’s unfortunate for Taylor given the fact he’d just made a comeback from a lengthy stint on the sidelines with various hamstring and hip complications,” Director of Football Geoff Walsh told NMFC.com.au.

“Despite the setback, he’s in really good spirits and has remained upbeat and positive.”

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Garner had surgery on Monday night to repair the damage and Walsh said the injury is similar to the one captain Andrew Swallow suffered against Essendon in Round 7.

“It’s pretty much in the same spot as Andrew’s thumb injury but it’s more complex which means it will take a lot more time to heal,” Walsh said.

“We anticipate a recovery period of four to six weeks but the good thing is, Taylor can continue his conditioning work and further improve in other areas in the gym.”

Taken with pick 15 in the 2012 Draft, Garner has managed just two games at senior level so far in his career.

RELATED: Full injury update