During an operation this week, surgeons successfully fused Egan’s navicular to the cuneiform in his foot, an option considered the best available.

Egan will spend the next six weeks in plaster followed by six weeks in a protective boot. Following these periods, doctors will reassess the tall backman’s chances of returning to football.

The latest bout of surgery follows on from a less than promising report from specialists a month ago where Egan’s future was questioned due to limited motion in his foot.

Prior to the latest operation, Cats coach Mark Thompson said the club fully supported any advice Egan sought from doctors.

"He hasn't got that much optimism but while he's got a chance he'll take every opportunity he can," Thompson said.

"Why wouldn't you? You don't want to be finished as a footballer at 24. He's doing whatever he can to get out there and we'll support him."

Egan, who has played 59 games for the Cats, injured the foot in the final round of the Cats 2007 premiership season.