Essendon will be without defender Jayden Laverde for a number of weeks after sustaining a shoulder injury.

The 26-year-old suffered an AC joint injury in the Dons’ Anzac Day clash with Collingwood on Tuesday and was subbed off as a result.

General Manager of Performance Daniel McPherson said Laverde underwent surgery on Thursday and is expected to return just prior to the mid-season bye.

“Jayden sustained an AC joint injury against Collingwood and was subsequently subbed out of the game,” McPherson said.

“He’s undergone surgery to repair the joint and we’re looking at a five-to-six-week timeframe for him to return to playing.”

Forward Matt Guelfi has continued his steady build towards a return to playing as he recovers from a hamstring injury.

The 25-year-old is now listed as a month away from being available for selection.

“’Guelf’ is making steady progress as he recovers from his hamstring injury,” McPherson said.

“He’s increased his running volume and we’re targeting a return to main training in the next few weeks.”

Essendon round seven injury list