MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 26: Taylor Garner of the Kangaroos kicks the ball for a goal in the dying stages during the round one AFL match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Adelaide Crows at Etihad Stadium on March 26, 2016 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

North Melbourne forward Taylor Garner has been ruled out for the rest of season 2016 due to a knee injury.

The 22-year-old, who managed three games this season, is set to undergo surgery to remove a cyst at the back of his knee.

"His hamstring issues have been well documented, but unfortunately for Taylor, a cyst has developed at the back of his knee," Kamgaroos director of football Geoff Walsh said.

"It has been inhibiting his ability to accelerate and reach top speeds.

"Attempts to treat him conservatively have been unsuccessful and the medical team has deemed it necessary for him to go in for an operation."

Garner has played 16 games in his short career, since making his debut in 2013.