Essendon’s hopes of an elusive AFL finals win have taken a hit, with veteran David Zaharakis to undergo ankle surgery.

The Bombers confirmed Zaharakis needs the operation after suffering syndesmosis damage during Saturday night’s upset away win over Fremantle.

The win confirmed a top-eight finish for the Bombers, but they have not won a final since 2004.

Zaharakis has played 20 out of 21 games this season for a career total of 207.

There is no way the midfielder will recover in time for their elimination final against either Collingwood or GWS and his season looks over.

But Richmond have had better news, with key defender Dylan Grimes cleared of serious damage to his ankle.

Grimes sent a scare through the Tigers camp when he hurt his ankle in a marking contest during Sunday’s thrilling win over West Coast at the MCG.

The 28-year-old – arguably Richmond’s most important player with Alex Rance out for the season – was helped from the ground by trainers but returned and finished the game.

Coach Damien Hardwick said Grimes’ ankle had “blown up” and he would be closely monitored before Sunday’s final game of the regular AFL season against ladder-leaders Brisbane, which could decide whether the Tigers earn a top-four finish.

But the news on Monday was positive with Grimes walking relatively freely without crutches or a moon boot at Punt Road.

“It was pretty painful when it first happened,” he told reporters.

“I’ve never really done an ankle so this is all a bit new to me. I wasn’t really sure how serious it was initially.

“I think at this early stage, we’ve just got to take every precaution and try and get it right early in the week.

“Hopefully I’ll train and, fingers crossed, get up to play.”

The Tigers expect to have skipper Trent Cotchin (hamstring) back to face the Lions at the MCG.

Ruckman Toby Nankervis is continuing to battle groin soreness and appears less likely to return before the finals.