EXPERIENCED Essendon midfielder David Zaharakis looks set to miss the rest of the season due to a syndesmosis injury he suffered against Fremantle.
Scans on Monday showed Zaharakis will require surgery for the injury, with the rest of his season in doubt.
Zaharakis' ankle was trapped in a contest early in Saturday night's win over Fremantle. He finished the game on crutches and with his leg in a moonboot.
Essendon football manager Dan Richardson said the club will seek extra advice before putting a timeframe on his return.
"David suffered the injury when his ankle got caught under him in a contest during the first quarter," Richardson said.
"Unfortunately, he'll undergo surgery in the coming days. Following his surgery, the club will seek further advice from the specialist to determine the length of time he'll be sidelined."
Zaharakis adds to what has been a frustrating season with injuries at Essendon this season, with Joe Daniher, Tom Bellchambers, Devon Smith among those currently all unavailable.
The 29-year-old has played 20 games this season, and earlier this year played his 200th match for the club.
However, he looks set to be sidelined for Essendon's finals series, with Zaharakis having played in three losing elimination finals in his career.
