Scans have confirmed Essendon midfielder Zach Merrett will require surgery after the 26-year-old suffered a high ankle syndesmosis injury during the fourth quarter of yesterday’s game against Brisbane.

The Bombers vice-captain is expected to miss approximately six to eight weeks.

Nik Cox also suffered an ankle injury during the final quarter of the match, with the Bombers to assess the 20-year-old across the coming week as they head into their round three clash with Melbourne.  

Essendon GM of football Josh Mahoney said the club will monitor Cox’s recovery over the coming days but confirmed that Merrett will spend an extended time on the sidelines. 

“Zach and Nik had scans this morning and have both suffered ankle injuries, with Zach expected to have a longer stint on the sidelines,” Mahoney said.   

“We will look at surgery as an option for Zach but it is likely he will miss around six to eight weeks.

“Nik’s injury isn’t as severe so we will assess his recovery this week and give him the best chance to get up for our match against Melbourne.”