Western Bulldogs vice-captain Ellie Blackburn will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 NAB AFLW Season after sustaining a significant mid-foot injury.

The 29-year-old suffered a disruption to the mid-foot ligament in her left foot during the final minute of the loss to West Coast on Thursday night.

She will require surgery to repair the damage, ruling her out of a return to competitive action this year.

“We’re all devastated for Ellie, who has been one of our most durable and reliable players and was set for another impactful campaign,” GM of Women’s Football, Patrice Berthold, said.

“After conducting a thorough review of available options, our medical staff have deemed surgery as the best course of action to facilitate her return to play in 2025.

“We’ll wrap our arms around Ellie and provide her with as much support as she needs throughout this entire process to ensure she can be at her best with us next year.”