Carlton ruckman Marc Pittonet will miss the side's daunting trip west to face Fremantle, after scans revealed the big man has a broken hand.
The Blues announced on Sunday morning that the 29-year old will undergo surgery on Monday, ruling him out of the clash with the Dockers, while he will be officially designated as a 'test' ahead of the side's clash with St Kilda, a week later.
The veteran ruckman has been one of the few shining lights for Michael Voss this season, competing admirably in the combative ruck position, despite fears a change in the rules would not suit his frame or style.
He is averaging over 14 disposals and 25 hitouts per contest, and has snuck forward on occasion too, registering six goals from six matches.
Physical ruckman Liam Reidy, who has just the four AFL appearances to his name, and only one as a Blue, appears a lock to face Fremantle - the club who plucked him from Frankston's VFL program and gave him his AFL chance.
The Blues will be desperate for a victory to quell external noise regarding Voss' tenure, and the damning vision of Elijah Hollands from Thursday night's encounter with Collingwood.
Toppling the Dockers would appear a tall order, however, with the two clubs anchored at opposite ends of the AFL ladder.
Some solace is the Blues recent record over the Dockers, claiming victories in three of their last five encounters.
