Essendon gun Dyson Heppell has undergone surgery to fix a hand injury and is set to miss Saturday's AFL clash with Gold Coast.
Heppell, the Bombers' best player this season, broke a bone in his hand at training on Wednesday morning.
Club doctor Bruce Reid was able to book the gifted 22-year-old in for hastily arranged surgery, adding that Heppell would not spend too long on the sidelines.
"We were extremely fortunate that Greg Hoy was available to operate on his hand within the hour," Reid said of the injury.
"The surgery was a success.
"Dyson had a plate and screws inserted into his hand and we're confident his recovery time will be minimal."
Heppell could be a shock inclusion on the weekend, but it's more likely he will be back to take on Carlton on Saturday week.
The midfielder's Brownlow Medal odds have shortened throughout a brilliant season.
Heppell's work during the eight-week injury-enforced absence of captain Jobe Watson was particularly impressive.
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