Jayden Laverde will be sidelined until at least the mid-season bye because of an ankle injury.

The 20 year old injured his ankle during the second half of the match against Geelong on Sunday.

He’ll have surgery this week and spend the first half of the season on the sidelines.

“It’s obviously disappointing for Jayden to have this setback on the eve of the season,” High Performance Justin Crow said.

“After seeking a specialist opinion we have decided that surgical repair is the best long term option for Jayden in this instance.

“All going well, we will be hoping to see Jayden back playing football soon after the mid-season bye ”

Laverde has played 18 games for the Bombers across his first two seasons in the AFL.