Hunter Clark has returned home after undergoing surgery to repair a nasal fracture.

The 23-year-old left the ground in the fourth quarter of the Saints win against Carlton after a collision with teammate Dan Butler.

While Butler has since been cleared of any injuries, only requiring stitches to his forehead, Clark spent the night in hospital before undergoing surgery this morning. He will be assessed in coming days and a return to play program will be outlined at that time.

“This is really disappointing for Hunter,” Head of Football David Rath said.

“He’s had a very unlucky run with injuries over the past 18 months.

“However, the good thing about Hunter is that he brings such a great attitude to his rehabilitation, something I have no doubt we’ll see again this time around.”

Clark will be joined on the sidelines by Co-Vice Captain Dougal Howard, who will see a specialist on Monday in relation to a meniscus injury.

“Dougal will consult a specialist following a knee scan earlier today and undergo an arthroscopy on Tuesday to assess a medial meniscal tear,” Rath said.

“At this stage we’re uncertain as to the exact management for this injury, so we’re unable to provide clarity on how long Dougal will miss, however we’ll look to share a further update when that information comes to hand.”