Geelong key defender Sam De Koning has been ruled out for 4-5 weeks after sustaining a shoulder injury in the Round 14 win over Essendon.
De Koning saw a specialist on Monday to discuss the plan of attack after scans revealed the severe injury to the AC joint, which subsequently requires surgery.
The Cats premiership player will miss clashes against Brisbane, Richmond, GWS and St Kilda at a minimum, while North Melbourne in Round 20 could be an estimated return date.
Teammate Zach Guthrie spoke on Monday about the injury to the 24-year-old.
"Sam's obviously a really important player for us and one we rely on every week to play on those taller types," Guthrie said.
"We've got a number of guys who can roll through that position.
"We'll certainly miss โDK' but it's nice to have a group that's gelling well together."
Mark Blicavs returned to the defence in the absence of De Koning.
The return of Tom Stewart and Jack Henry in recent weeks has bolstered Chris Scott's defensive lineup, with Geelong becoming one of the stingiest sides in the competition.
As for the mouth-watering clash against Brisbane on Friday, Scott has multiple avenues to fill the void of De Koning.
Veteran defender Jed Bews has historically played on Lions small forward Charlie Cameron, and after a spell in the VFL, could be called upon.
Blicavs can remain in defence, allowing Shannon Neale to shoulder the secondary ruck role more prominently, which could open the door for Oliver Henry to return to the senior side.
Jack Bowes, who is returning from a minor hamstring injury, was left out of the senior side as he was given an extra week off despite being deemed available to play.
