Collingwood forward Ash Johnson will be sidelined for a number of weeks with scans last night confirming a fracture to his left fibula.

Johnson sustained the injury during Collingwood’s VFL pre-season game against the Northern Bullants yesterday afternoon.

Collingwood EGM Football Charlie Gardiner said:

“This is disappointing news for Ash who has enjoyed a strong start to the year.

“Ash sustained the injury during our Club’s VFL pre-season game yesterday afternoon. He is expected to undergo surgery next week and will unfortunately spend an extended period of time on the sidelines as he recovers.

“This is obviously a significant setback, but Ash remains in good spirits all things considered and has the full support of our medical team and wider program.”

The Club will communicate an approximate timeframe on his return to football in due course.