Melbourne has confirmed captain Max Gawn suffered a syndesmosis injury in Monday's loss to Collingwood during the traditional Queen's Birthday clash.
During an ankle scan on Tuesday, the 30-year-old's results revealed a tear, but it likely to avoid surgery pending a secondary CT scan to come.
In the midst of their turmoil, Gawn is likely to miss at least three weeks and could out be longer once the severity of his injury is revealed.
“Max had a left ankle concern during the game and, while he managed to battle through, was quite sore afterwards,” Alan Richardson told the club’s official website.
“He had some scans on Tuesday, which unfortunately showed some ligament damage.
“Max will be in a moonboot until early next week and will then begin his structured rehabilitation program.
“It’s obviously disappointing that we will be without our leader for the next three to five weeks, but we’re hopeful it’ll be a relatively quick recovery for Max, and he won’t miss too much footy.”
Gawn's injury is compounded by the concussion suffered by debutant Daniel Turner from the weekend, who may not miss a match given the bye, as well as Harrison Petty's shoulder soreness but should be available for their crucial clash against Brisbane (round 15).
The Demons have lost their last three and have limped to the bye, with veteran Tom McDonald still out with injury as well as the off-field drama involving Steven May and Jake Melksham adding more fuel to the fire.
Melbourne face the Lions as well as Adelaide and Geelong in their first three weeks after the bye in what is a tough few weeks for the reigning premiers.
