ST KILDA hard nut David Armitage will not play again this season after running out of time to recover from two groin operations.
Armitage, 29, was unable to reach the required level of fitness while pain-free.
The Saints have opted for a long-term approach and the onballer is expected to be fit for the start of pre-season.
Armitage played two games in the first month of the season before going under the knife.
Match preview: Melbourne v St Kilda
He returned through the VFL in late July and collected 21 disposals from 60 minutes of game time after St Kilda coach Alan Richardson admitted pushing Armitage's recovery in a bid to have him return before season's end.
Meanwhile, Nick Riewoldt will be tested ahead of Sunday's clash with Melbourne at the MCG after he was concussed in a head clash with West Coast midfielder Dom Sheed last Sunday.
Saints coach Alan Richardson was optimistic after beating the Eagles Riewoldt wouldn’t be forced to miss this week.
An ankle syndesmosis injury suffered in the VFL has ruled out tough nut Nathan Wright for 2017.
St Kilda accepted a one-match ban for Ben Long in the VFL for engaging in rough conduct.
However, that is effectively a two-game suspension in the AFL because Sandringham has a bye this weekend.
While young defender Bailey Rice is training, he will be unavailable for a third straight match with a shin contusion. A Zebras return is expected the following week.
