Key forward Stewart Crameri will miss the remainder of the season after scans confirmed the 23-year-old will require surgery on his dislocated shoulder.

General manager of football operations Paul Hamilton said surgery was the best course of action for Crameri after he dislocated his right shoulder during the Bombers’ 57-point loss to the West Coast Eagles on Saturday.

“Following medical advice from the surgeon, it was decided that surgery was really the only option to take in this instance,” Hamilton said.

“We were weighing up our options but ultimately we did not want to take any risks so Stewart will go ahead with surgery to his shoulder.

“Stew has had a breakout season this year and it’s incredibly disappointing to lose him, but we know that other players will step up and fill the void.""

Don't miss the Bomber Show on Thursday night for an exclusive interview with Stewart Crameri.

Despite Essendon’s recent injury woes, Hamilton said captain Jobe Watson and utility Andrew Welsh had resumed full training early in the week following the pair’s concussion on Saturday afternoon.

“They have pulled up really well since Monday and are both feeling a lot better now,"" he said.

“What usually happens in these situations is that the club will do some testing – both early and later in the week – but the signs for both those players early on is quite positive.”
 
Hamilton said he remains confident that key defenders Michael Hurley and Tayte Pears will be made available for the Bombers’ crucial clash against Port Adelaide.
 
“Both Hurley and Pears are still very good chances to play this weekend – they do have to get through the rest of the week’s training but we’re quite confident that both those guys will be available.”