Adelaide forward Lachlan Murphy will be out of action for at least three months after aggravating a neck injury.
The 23-year-old has dealt with a bulging disk in his neck for two seasons, but after damaging it further in the last few months the club has opted to send him in for surgery.
High Performance Manager Darren Burgess provided an update on the club’s website.
“While it’s disappointing for Lachlan to be missing the second half of the pre-season, the decision to have surgery will give him the best chance to return to football in full health,” Burgess said.
“We are pleased by the amount of work he has been able to do to this point and are confident he will return to his best this season.”
Murphy played 15 games for the Crows in 2021 and has played 59 total, kicking 47 goals.