Geelong's Allen Christensen will be sidelined for at least the first half of the AFL season after undergoing back surgery on Friday.
Christensen went under the knife after complaining of leg and back pain associated with a lumbar disc injury.
He'll spend the next twelve weeks in recovery before starting training in the hope of playing a part in Geelong's second half of their campaign.
Christensen, who has played 51 games since debuting in 2011, enjoyed his best season last year, playing all but four of Geelong's matches and finishing eighth in the club best-and-fairest.
Having forged a position within the Cats best 22, Geelong football boss Neil Balme said the injury was a blow to both player and club.
"The surgery should ensure the issue is resolved and he will be able to move and pay more freely," Balme said.
"Allen is a key player but we have confidence that we have depth and this will provide an opportunity for someone to step up."
Geelong has a number of key players recently returned from the operating table including Joel Selwood (foot) who should still play a part in the pre-season.
George Burbury, who suffered a broken jaw in the opening NAB Challenge match on Wednesday, does not have a return date yet while Steven Motlop (knee) is likely to miss the Cats' season opener.
Christensen appeared upbeat on his Twitter account, saying "Thanks for all the support guys, appreciated a lot! Disappointed to miss start of year but will be back playing with the boys in no time".
Geelong has experience with this condition, with Dawson Simpson - who debuted in 2010 but has played just 11 games - having the same surgery in 2012.
