ESSENDON midfielder Travis Colyer has opted for surgery on his season-ending foot injury to give himself the best chance of returning in time for the 2016 pre-season.

Colyer's season was ended when scans this week revealed a cracked navicular as well as a stress fracture on the fourth metatarsal of his foot.

While both injuries could have healed with rest to potentially have him prepared for the start of next season, the decision for surgery was made after consulting with his surgeon this week.

It is understood the surgery will require bone grafting and a screw.

Colyer has been arguably the Bombers' most improved player this year, utilising his speed and playing with confidence through the midfield to average 16 possessions and 3.5 inside 50s a game.

The Bombers also lost ruckman Tom Bellchambers to a stress fracture in his right foot this week. He won't be able to return to training for eight weeks, putting the remainder of his season in jeopardy.