PERTH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 17: David Zaharakis of the Bombers is assisted from the field with a leg injury during the round 22 AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Essendon Bombers at Optus Stadium on August 17, 2019 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Essendon has confirmed star midfielder David Zaharakis will have surgery to repair an injury to his syndesmosis that he suffered against the Dockers on Saturday night.

“David suffered the injury when his ankle got caught under him in a contest during the first quarter,” Essendon's General Manager of football Dan Richardson told the club's website.

“Unfortunately, he’ll undergo surgery in the coming days. Following his surgery, the Club will seek further advice from the specialist to determine the length of time he’ll be sidelined.”