Geelong defender Sam De Koning underwent surgery on Wednesday afternoon to repair a nasal and maxillary bone fracture after sustaining the injury during the second half of the Club’s match against Essendon last Sunday at the MCG.

Geelong General Manager of Football Simon Lloyd said, “We are feeling for Sam, he has been an important part of our team for the last 18 months, not just in defence but more recently showing his versatility by playing in the ruck.

“After presenting to the Club’s medical staff with some symptoms, Sam was sent for a CT scan where a fracture was confirmed. Following consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon Sam underwent surgery on Wednesday afternoon.”

De Koning is expected to be sidelined for the short term.