North Melbourne Director of Football Geoff Walsh has released the following statement regarding Ben Jacobs’ foot injury.

“We’ve been managing and closely monitoring an issue with Ben’s foot since January.

“A hot spot flared up this week and scans revealed a very small stress fracture in his fifth metatarsal.

“The club is now assessing various treatment options, with surgery a real possibility.

“Early advice is that if surgery is required, he’ll be looking at eight to ten weeks on the sidelines.

“Reports that Ben won’t return for the remainder of the home and away season are unfounded and speculative.”

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