Melbourne veteran Jack Viney is set to be sidelined for at least 12 weeks following an interrupted pre-season.
The midfielder is set for achilles surgery on Tuesday, with Zero Hanger previously revealing that he has had his training heavily limited as a result, but his latest setback is a back injury.
The back injury came as he was increasing his load, with Melbourne now believing he is several weeks away from returning to full training.
Viney's injury adds further responsibility to livewire Kysaiah Pickett in a new look midfield, following the departures of Clayton Oliver and Christian Petracca in the off-season.
Recruit Jack Steele will also have a golden opportunity to prove his value, while Harvey Langford and Caleb Windsor could also be set for increased midfield opportunity.
Melbourne kicks off its season against St Kilda on March 15.
