Fremantle defender Alex Pearce has undergone surgery after fracturing the tibia in his right leg in Saturday’s game against Richmond at Domain Stadium.

Fremantle general manager of football operations Chris Bond said Pearce was operated on Sunday after scans confirmed the initial diagnosis.

“With injuries such as a fractured tibia, the medical advice in the first instance is that Alex have a non-weight bearing period of six weeks,” Bond said.

“After that six week period, we will be better placed to provide a time frame for Alex’s return but he will miss the rest of the season,” Bond said.

“It’s extremely disappointing for Alex, his family and our members and supporters but he is a very resilient young man and will respond in the best possible way.

Lyon post-match Q & A

“Once Alex has recovered from surgery, we will work with our medical team to carefully map out his rehabilitation program and ensure that he has all the support he needs to get back to training and playing.”

The 20-year-old had made an impressive start to his AFL career, playing 21 games since making his debut in round six last year, including eight games as a key defender in 2016.

Pearce joins Harley Bennell (calf) and Nat Fyfe (leg) as the third Fremantle player in 2016 to be ruled out for the season due to injury.

In addition, Michael Johnson is enduring a long stint on the sidelines after injuring his knee and hamstring in round five, while Aaron Sandilands has already missed six games since suffering a punctured lung and broken ribs in round three.

Meanwhile, captain David Mundy (calf) and Stephen Hill (adductor) will both undergo fitness tests before being considered for selection for Saturday’s clash against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium.