Young forward Matthew Allison will spend some time on the sidelines with a foot injury.

The 20-year-old will undergo surgery next week to correct a stress fracture in his left navicular bone.

The injury brings to a halt the former first round draft pick’s most promising pre-season yet.

“Matt had really been impressing on the track, so for this to happen is very disappointing,” Performance, Medical and Operations Manager David Misson said.

“Following consultations with specialists we elected to send Matt in for surgery to have the foot stabilised.

“While the recovery time is 16 – 20 weeks, which is significant, Matt’s a really positive and professional young man.

“He goes into this period of rehabilitation with the whole club behind him.”