North Melbourne will be without Ed Vickers-Willis for the rest of the season.

The 21-year-old was initially listed as being out for eight weeks on the club’s Anytime Fitness Injury Update after injuring his PCL against Richmond in Round 11, but after a review with his orthopaedic surgeon this week, the decision has been made to take a more conservative approach.

“The focus for Ed will now be on building the strength back in his knee in preparation for the pre-season campaign,” GM Football Cameron Joyce said.

“Ed has been tracking well in his recovery and there’s been no set-back, we’re simply taking long-term approach to allow him more time to fully recover and put himself in the best position ahead of the 2018 season.”

Vickers-Willis made his debut in Round 5 against Fremantle and played seven consecutive games, averaging 14 disposals.

For more NMFC injury news and the full injury list, visit the Anytime Fitness Health Hub