The Western Bulldogs today confirmed defender Tom Williams will miss up to 16 weeks after injuring his right shoulder in the first quarter of the Round Two NAB Cup win against Carlton on Sunday.

Exploratory surgery of Williams’ shoulder determined the need for further reconstructive surgery which was subsequently performed last night.

Football Manager James Fantasia said that although it was very disappointing, he expects Williams to bounce back as he has done with past injuries.

“Tom is a resilient character and will leave no stone unturned in his recovery from this set-back… he is in good spirits,” Fantasia said.