Geelong vice captain Brenton Sanderson will miss the remainder of the 2004 AFL finals series after being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation results in an irregular heart rhythm and the condition will be managed over a six-week period. Tests have shown Sanderson’s heart to be normal and he is expected to make a full recovery and will be able to resume playing next season.

“I am obviously disappointed to miss the rest of the finals after we all worked so hard to reach this point,” Sanderson said.

“However I am relieved to know that this is treatable and that there will be no long time health issues or side effects. The medical staff have been positive throughout and assure me that I will be able to recover fully.”