Canberra second-rower John Bateman is out for at least six weeks of NRL action after scans revealed he suffered a fractured eye socket in his team's win over Penrith.
The English import could be sidelined for even longer with the injury requiring surgery.
Bateman was injured tackling Panthers big man Viliame Kikau and was sent to hospital after failing his head injury assessment.
The Raiders forecast a return for the 25-year-old between rounds 15-17.
Rookie forward Hudson Young will likely replace him, while coach Ricky Stuart could also opt for youngster Jack Murchie or move prop Josh Papalii to the second row.
England international Bateman has been impressive in his first NRL season and is a significant loss for the Raiders.
But the Green Machine could be welcoming back reigning Dally M centre of the year Joey Leilua for a mouth-watering clash against Roosters superstar Latrell Mitchell on Sunday.
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