IN-FORM Essendon midfielder Dyson Heppell is set to miss this week's clash with Gold Coast after fracturing his hand at training on Wednesday.
The 22-year-old, who has firmed in Browbnlow Medal contention in recent weeks, has already undergone surgery and the club is hopeful he will only miss one game.
"Dyson sustained a fracture in his hand during training this morning but we were extremely fortunate that [surgeon] Greg Hoy was available to operate on his hand within the hour," club doctor Bruce Reid said in a club statement.
"The surgery was a success, Dyson had a plate and screws inserted into his hand and we're confident his recovery time will be minimal."
Heppell has played every game this year and averaged 28 disposals in a permanent move to the midfield.
Last week he gathered 39 disposals (29 came in the second half) to lead the Bombers to a come-from-behind win over West Coast.
"I just loved his attitude as a man, because he plays the same every week. Even in the most severe pressure he came out and took the team with him today," coach Mark Thompson said after the game.
Essendon can all but assure itself of a finals position with a win over the Suns on Saturday at Etihad Stadium.
