North Melbourne will be without Tristan Xerri for Sunday's Round 16 match against Essendon, after scans revealed the star ruck had fractured his jaw.
Xerri, who suffered a hit to the jaw during Round 15's win over Richmond at the MCG, was assessed after he reported soreness post-game.
"A follow-up scan revealed a fracture in his jaw and a need for surgery," North Melbourne head of performance Kevin White said.
"Tristan will miss this week’s game against Essendon and has a surgical review next week to determine availability beyond that."
In a further blow for the Kangaroos, defender Toby Pink will be sidelined for the remainder of the season following shoulder surgery.
Pink, who has been playing at VFL level since playing five of North Melbourne's opening seven AFL games, underwent a stabilisation procedure this week.
"After experiencing some discomfort and weakness over the past few weeks, follow-up investigations determined that the joint needed to be repaired rather than progressing through a strengthening program," White said.
Midfielder Tom Powell (groin) will push for a return this week after completing a high-loading conditioning session at Arden St over the weekend.
"He has pulled up well and will look to train strongly with minimal symptoms across this week to declare his availability," White said.
Young utility Luke Urquhart (knee) is three weeks away from a potential return as he works his way back from a knee injury.
"Luke is at a stage now where he is tolerating prescribed sessions and loading on-field with rehab football drills and conditioning," White said.
"The next stage is to build his intensity within team training over the coming weeks to ensure a graduated ramp back into competitive football."
Injury List
Presented by
Last Updated:
