Western Bulldogs midfielder Lin Jong has departed the Gold Coast hub to head home for ankle surgery.

The 27-year-old will take no further part in the 2020 AFL season.

Jong overcame a pre-season hamstring injury to return in round two against St Kilda, before sustaining a syndesmosis injury in round five against the GWS Giants.

“Lin has had some persisting irritability in his ankle following his syndesmosis injury earlier this season,” medical services manager, Chris Bell, said.

“With time running out to get Lin back up to AFL match fitness, we have decided to ensure he is ready to complete a full pre-season. 

“He will have arthroscopic surgery in Melbourne next week to address the cause of his symptoms.”