With the retirement of Western Bulldogs premiership hero Liam Picken confirmed earlier this week, many North Melbourne fans would’ve immediately thought about the absence of their star tagger, Ben Jacobs.

But in reality, Jacobs is no longer missing football due to concussion, with the ongoing problems far more complex.

That’s not to dismiss concussion as a simple issue. On the contrary, Jacobs has battled bouts of concussion during his long injury lay-off, but according to several specialists, his neck, nose and face remain areas of concern.

Jacobs, who has been moved back to the rehabilitation group, is struggling with sinusitis and is too unwell to train.

He is out indefinitely and not even coach Brad Scott has an inkling on when his stopper will be available for senior selection.