ESSENDON'S Jayden Laverde will be sidelined until at least the mid-season bye as he recovers from ankle surgery.

Laverde, 20, was hurt late in the JLT Community Series contest against Geelong on Sunday and will have surgery this week.

"It’s obviously disappointing for Jayden to have this setback on the eve of the season," Essendon high performance manager Justin Crow said.

"After seeking a specialist opinion we have decided that surgical repair is the best long-term option for Jayden in this instance.

"All going well, we will be hoping to see Jayden back playing football soon after the mid-season bye."