Melbourne star recruit Mitch Clark will miss the rest of the AFL season with a serious foot injury.

The former Lion had made a superb start to his Demons career, kicking 29 goals in 11 games.

Clark sustained the foot fracture while attempting to mark during Sunday’s win over Greater Western Sydney at the MCG.

“This is incredibly unfortunate for Mitch and for everyone involved with the club,” Demons football manager Josh Mahoney said.

“His leadership and influence on the group – on and off the field – has been outstanding since arriving at the club.

“The club will now investigate the best course of action to repair and rehabilitate Mitch’s injury.

“We want to ensure he has a smooth return to football in 2013.”