Collingwood star Steele Sidebottom needs surgery after he was kicked in the groin at training ahead of their big AFL clash with Essendon.
In news that likely had every male wincing, Sidebottom suffered a ruptured testicle and will have the operation on Wednesday evening.
He will definitely miss Friday night’s blockbuster and it is unclear when the Magpies’ reigning best-and-fairest will play again.
“Steele was in clear discomfort but the extent of the injury and an anticipated recovery period won’t be known until after the surgery,” Magpies football boss Geoff Walsh said.
Sidebottom has played every game this season and his absence is a major blow for Collingwood ahead of Friday’s game.
The Magpies are fifth and could return to the top four if they beat Essendon and other results go their way.
Sidebottom, who has won Collingwood’s past two best-and-fairest awards, also made the All-Australian team last year for the first time.
He had a streak of playing 88 consecutive games that started in round four, 2016.
The Magpies hope the pre-finals bye weekend will mean Sidebottom is able to play in September.