NORTH Melbourne forward Jy Simpkin will be sidelined for up to six weeks with the shoulder injury he suffered against Sydney on Sunday.
North announced on Monday afternoon Simpson would undergo surgery on Tuesday to repair his right AC joint.
"Jy saw a specialist this morning and it was decided that surgery was the best option to repair the joint," North doctor Peter Baquie told NMFC.com.au.
Simpkin was injured in a collision with Sydney's Lewis Melican in the first term of Sunday's game at Etihad Stadium.
The 19-year-old returned to the ground briefly in the second quarter with his shoulder strapped, but went off for good soon after taking part in a marking contest.
Simpkin, North's first selection in last year's NAB AFL Draft at No.12 overall, had been enjoying an impressive first season before Sunday's injury, playing in six of North's opening eight games after making his debut in round one.
In better news for the Roos, fellow forward Taylor Garner could return this Sunday against Melbourne, after two weeks on the sidelines with hamstring tightness.
"Given his history, we've been ultra-cautious with Taylor," Baquie said.
"He'll need to get through training this week but may be available this weekend."
