MELBOURNE AFL captain Max Gawn will be sidelined for two to three weeks, after sustaining an ankle injury in the Demons’ Round 17 win over West Coast on Sunday afternoon.


The injury occurred during the second quarter of the clash at the MCG, with Gawn later being subbed out of the match.



General Manager of AFL Performance Alan Richardson provided an update on the 32-year-old.



“Scans have today shown that Max has sustained a chip to the base of his right fibula,” Richardson said.



“While this is disappointing news for Max, fortunately he won’t require surgery.



“Max is the ultimate professional and leader and we know he’ll attack his rehab and continue to play a pivotal role in our group over the next few weeks, albeit from the sidelines.



"While Max is the calibre of player that can’t be replaced easily, it provides an exciting opportunity for others to come in and play their role in our side.”



Melbourne will take on rivals Essendon in a blockbuster match on Saturday night.