West Coast Eagles defender Will Schofield suffered serious facial injuries after an unprovoked attack in Geelong on Saturday night.

Schofield was one of a number of players who were granted permission to stay over in Melbourne after the match against Collingwood at the MCG.

He was out with friends on Saturday night and they were walking to their vehicle when they were attacked.

The incident is being investigated by Geelong detectives.

Schofield returned to Perth last night and will be assessed by the club's medical staff.

As this matter is the subject of a police investigation, the club cannot make any further comment.