THERE IS no timeframe for the return of promising Geelong forward Esava Ratugolea after he underwent surgery to repair the badly fractured right ankle he suffered against Carlton at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday night. 

The young Cat went under the knife on Sunday to have a plate and screws inserted into his leg to stabilise the tibia and fibula fractures he sustained during the second quarter of the match.

CATS TOUGH IT OUT Full match coverage and stats

Ratugolea, 19, was stretchered from the field after he got his right leg awkwardly trapped underneath his body in a marking contest.

The Cats will have more clarity around his return once he recovers from surgery and begins his rehabilitation, although it's highly likely he will miss the rest of the season.

Cats coach Chris Scott said Ratugolea's injury could have been worse, although he is under no illusions as to how the injury could impact his side's fortunes this season.

"(It's) significant, but not horrific as first thought," Scott said after the game on Saturday night.

"He'll obviously miss a decent chunk of footy and looks likely he'll need surgery.

"Serious injuries to young players are just about the worst thing you can imagine in the game."

The second-year forward, who stands at 197cm and 102kg, booted seven goals in eight games and had become an integral member of Geelong's forward line given his ability to compete in the air and at ground level.

Ratugolea, of Fijian heritage, has developed cult status at the Cattery this season as a result of his high-flying attributes and enthusiasm for the game and the contest.