MELBOURNE captain Max Gawn is expected to be sidelined for between three to five weeks after suffering a syndesmosis injury in Monday’s Queen’s Birthday clash with Collingwood. 

Scans yesterday confirmed the injury but reassuringly showed the ankle area is stable and does not require surgery.  

GM of AFL Performance Alan Richardson confirmed the news on Wednesday.

“Max had a left ankle concern during the game and, while he managed to battle through, was quite sore afterwards,” he said.

“He had some scans on Tuesday, which unfortunately showed some ligament damage.

“Max will be in a moonboot until early next week and will then begin his structured rehabilitation program.

“It’s obviously disappointing that we will be without our leader for the next three to five weeks, but we’re hopeful it’ll be a relatively quick recovery for Max, and he won’t miss too much footy.”

Daniel Turner, who made his debut in Round 13, has also sustained face fractures following scans earlier in the week.

Turner was subbed out due to the concussion protocols in the third quarter of the Queen’s Birthday match and will now undergo surgery to repair the fractures.

Richardson said it was unfortunate news for the first-gamer.

“This is a disappointing outcome for Daniel, who has worked extremely hard to earn his spot in the senior side,” he said.

“Daniel will undergo surgery this week and we expect him to miss approximately four weeks.”

The Demons, who have a bye this weekend, will take on the Brisbane Lions in a Thursday night blockbuster match in Round 15 at the MCG.