GREATER Western Sydney midfielder Jacob Townsend will be sidelined for a month with a foot injury.

Townsend pulled up sore after Saturday’s NAB Challenge victory over Gold Coast and will wear a moon boot for the next fortnight with bone bruising.

He played eight games last season for a career total of 27 in his three seasons at the club. 

Townsend's injury adds to a growing Giants' list that still includes vice-captain Tom Scully (ankle) and defender Tim Mohr (knee) who are expected to return in the next fortnight.

Forwards Rhys Palmer and James Stewart have overcome minor niggles and will be available to play against Essendon at Spotless Stadium on Friday night.

Jon Patton (TBC), Lachie Plowman (elbow, 10 weeks), Liam Sumner (foot, seven weeks), Caleb Marchbank (shin, four weeks) and Jeremy Finlayson (hip, six weeks) all remain in the rehabilitation group.