North Melbourne expect midfielder Liam Anthony to be sidelined for three months after he seriously injured his shoulder against Collingwood on Saturday night.

The talented 22-year-old, who has played every game for the AFL club so far this year, will have a full shoulder reconstruction on Wednesday.

It is the second serious injury setback the youngster has had in his short career.

In his debut season last year, he was due to play in the opening round after strong pre-season form.

But a stress fracture in his foot delayed his AFL debut until round 13.

He played out the season in the senior side and in his 17 AFL matches so far, has never picked up fewer than 16 touches.

Another Kangaroos youngster, Ben Ross, is also due for a long stint out of action due to injury.

The club said Ross needs two operations - one on his pubic bone followed by another on his hip - to repair an ongoing groin complaint.

Ross has missed the club's past five games.

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