Essendon have suffered another injury blow with livewire Orazio Fantasia ruled out for up to three weeks with a minor quad strain.
Fantasia, who was restricted to 13 games last season due to multiple injuries, suffered the injury during Friday night's clash against Sydney while returning from a two-week illness absence.
But the 23-year-old forward ploughed on, booting four goals as the Bombers lost by five points to fall to 3-5.
Essendon football manager Dan Richardson confirmed Fantasia would be sidelined for the next two to three weeks.
"Orazio pulled up sore following the game on Friday evening with scans later confirming he had sustained a minor strain to his quad," Richardson said in a statement on Monday.
"While it is disappointing, Orazio will dedicate himself to his rehabilitation program over the next fortnight to ensure a return to football as soon as possible."
Essendon's forward stocks have been decimated across the first third of the season.
Shaun McKernan (hamstring), James Stewart (groin) and Mitch Brown (wrist) are weeks away from returning to fitness.
But the Bombers are likely to be boosted by the return of spearhead Joe Daniher (rested) for Saturday night's clash against Fremantle at Marvel Stadium.
Essendon then plays Richmond and cellar dwellers Carlton in a pivotal three-week period for the struggling club.
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