Promising young Richmond defender Dylan Grimes had surgery today at the Epworth Hospital to repair an injured hamstring tendon suffered in last Saturday night’s Dreamtime at the ‘G clash with Essendon.

He will spend an extended period of time on the sidelines while he recovers from the injury.

“Dylan’s injury is similar in nature to those suffered by Josh Gibson and Nick Riewoldt recently, and the surgery was performed by the same surgeon,” said Richmond Elite Performance Manager Matt Hornsby.

“We’re optimistic that Dylan will recover well, and we know he will be extremely diligent with his rehabilitation program.”

Grimes’ second season at Richmond has gathered momentum since his return to the senior team in Round 3 against Hawthorn, after making his debut in the final round of the 2010 season.

The 19-year-old has shown improvement in each of his eight games in defence, and has twice collected 16 possessions in a match this season.