Promising Melbourne defender Colin Garland will miss most of the 2009 AFL season with a serious foot injury.

Garland has suffered a stress fracture in the right navicular bone and will undergo surgery on Monday.

The club says it will keep him sidelined for up to four months.

It is a similar injury to that suffered by Geelong key defender Matthew Egan on the eve of the 2007 finals series.

Egan has not played since and has already been ruled out for all of 2009.

Garland, 20, pulled up sore following Sunday's game against North Melbourne.

Following consultation with a specialist, Garland will have surgery to correct the problem on Monday.

"This is obviously disappointing for Colin and for the team," said Demons coach Dean Bailey.

"Colin is a vital player for us, but his longevity in the game is important, and while this is a short hiccup we look forward to having him back in the later rounds of this season."

Garland had a breakthrough season in 2008, playing 17 games.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP