Port Adelaide utility Jeremy Finlayson will undergo ankle surgery in the coming days after being injured in a training drill.
The club says Finlayson, who played 20 games last year in his first season with the Power, is still expected to be fit for Round 1.
In a club statement, Port said: “Finlayson had his left ankle caught under a teammate as he was tackled and was unable to complete training. The suspected syndesmosis injury was confirmed on MRI imaging, with the need for surgery confirmed.
“The 26-year-old is expected to be available to play in the club’s season opener against Brisbane on March 18.”
Jez is set for surgery, however he is still expected to be available for Round 1 ⤵️
— Port Adelaide FC (@PAFC) February 2, 2023
Finlayson started the season as a forward before filling a hole in the ruck in his first season at Alberton, more than justifying the club’s decision to trade for him in the 2021 trade period.
He'll turn 27 in a matter of days and is expected to play his 100th AFL game in 2022, currently sitting 14 short of the mark on 86.
Syndesmosis injuries that require surgery typically sideline players for about eight weeks.