All-Australian contender Michael Hurley has undergone shoulder surgery.

The defender was one of Essendon’s best players throughout the year.

He missed three matches late in the season because of a knee injury but Club Doctor Bruce Reid said his shoulder had also caused some problems.

“He has had two sub-luxation’s of his shoulder so he is having reconstructive surgery,” he said.

“The type of surgery that he’ll be having is similar to David Myers and they make a full recovery in 12-14 weeks.”

Given that timeframe, Hurley will be able to participate in running drills when pre-season starts in November, but he may need to wait an extra couple of weeks to begin full weight training.

Heath Hocking overcame groin problems to finish the season strongly. 

The midfielder kicked the match-winning goal against Collingwood in round 23.

But he too has had shoulder surgery in the hope of being close to full-fitness when the players return for pre-season.