Melbourne Storm star player, Ryan Papenhuyzen, has this morning undergone surgery on a fractured right ankle suffered in Friday night's loss to the Brisbane Broncos.
Storm General Manager Football, Frank Ponissi, said it was huge loss for the side, but Papenhuyzen was maintaining a positive outlook.
"We're obviously devastated for Ryan suffering another setback after spending a significant time away from the game after injuring his knee last year," Ponissi said.
"He's worked extremely hard to get back to the NRL over that time and left no stone unturned in his recovery.
"We know that he is the ultimate professional on and off the field and this is just another challenge that he will take on with both hands.
"His surgery went well this morning and, at this stage, we expect him to be back training in the new year but for now we're focused on ensuring he is getting the right care."
Ponissi said Xavier Coates will have scans later this afternoon on his injured ankle after returning to Melbourne with the team.
