DAVID Zaharakis will miss at least the next six weeks after scans revealed he will need surgery on his shoulder.

The Essendon midfielder was crunched in a Toby Nankervis tackle in the opening term of the Bombers' heavy loss to Richmond on Saturday night and sat out the rest of the game.

The club confirmed on Monday the 28-year-old would need surgery on his injured sternoclavicular joint.

Zaharakis had been in strong form for the club, averaging 29 disposals a game until the injury struck.

The Bombers will play Brisbane at the Gabba on Sunday before having their bye in round 12.