STAR Essendon defender Michael Hurley's chances of playing again this year are in jeopardy as he prepares for shoulder surgery.

Hurley, 29, hurt his left shoulder after copping a huge hit from North Melbourne youngster Cameron Zurhaar.

Football manager Dan Richardson is "hopeful" Hurley will be back in 2019.

"Unfortunately Michael will undergo surgery in the coming days to repair the damage to the AC joint in his shoulder," Richardson told essendonfc.com.au.

"Once the surgery is complete, we will be in a better position to clarify the length of time he will be sidelined.

"While it's a disappointing outcome, we remain hopeful Michael could return to play before season's end."

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It's a brutal blow for the Bombers. Coming off a third-straight win, against North on Saturday, they sit 9-7 and finals are well and truly within reach.

However, captain Dyson Heppell has missed two consecutive games with a left foot issue, joining Joe Daniher (groin) and Devon Smith (knee) on the sidelines.