WESTERN Bulldogs star Jason Johannisen will have off-season surgery to correct a lingering hip injury.
The 25-year-old had been battling the complaint in the latter part of the season, and will go under the knife early next week.
The Bulldogs hope the minor clean-up won't hinder his preparation for the 2019 pre-season that will begin on November 19.
Despite playing all 22 games, Johannisen's season reflected an inconsistent Bulldogs outfit that missed the finals for the second consecutive season.
The 2016 Norm Smith Medallist finished the season strongly, averaging 29 disposals in the last four matches, where the Dogs went 3-1.
Johannisen's surgery adds to a long list of Bulldogs injuries in the latter half of the season.
Regulars Marcus Adams (shoulder), Luke Dahlhaus (ankle), Bailey Dale (foot), Tory Dickson (hamstring), Lin Jong (sternum), Jack Redpath (knee), Matt Suckling (Achilles), Zaine Cordy (facial fracture) and Lukas Webb (neck) missed the final round.
Tom Liberatore ruptured his ACL in the opening round of the season, while Liam Picken (concussion) failed to play this season but has been cleared to continue in 2019.
