It's been a rough start to pre-season for Melbourne and new coach Steven King with three key players sidelined from training - with one to miss the start of the 2026 season.
Utility Jake Bowey will be sidelined for six months after picking up a Lisfranc injury that needs surgery - which will see him out until May-June.
The Demons also have concerns over Jack Viney, who has Achilles soreness and won't resume full training until next year, while Harvey Langford is currently absent because of concussion protocols after getting hit at training.
Bowey, who is a crucial cog to the Demons defence and also stepped up into midfield last season, finished fourth in Melbourne's best-and-fairest after a career-best season.
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“This is a really unfortunate injury for Jake, who hurt his foot during a recent training session, with scans confirming a Lisfranc injury,” Melbourne football boss Alan Richardson said.
“Jake will have surgery in the coming days to repair the Lisfranc injury. We will ensure Jake receives all the support he requires throughout his recovery period.
“I have no doubt that Jake will attack his recovery with his usual professionalism.”
It's going to be a season of transition for Melbourne, with new coach King replacing Simon Goodwin, while Christian Petracca (Gold Coast) and Clayton Oliver (GWS) have departed for new clubs.
The Demons have added some experience with former St Kilda captain Jack Steele bolstering their midfield and ex-Collingwood work horse Brody Miihocek complementing the forward line.