Scans earlier this week showed Allen had bone bruising on his knee, but it has since been discovered there is also some cartilage damage.
West Coast released a statement on Thursday confirming Allen will require a minor arthroscopic procedure in the coming days to trim the cartilage, ruling him out for a minimum of eight weeks.
Heartbreaking news for Elijah and Oscar 💔 We're with them every step of the way and can't wait to see them back on the track! — West Coast Eagles (@WestCoastEagles) pic.twitter.com/igou8Lo7gbMarch 21, 2024
A follow-up scan in a month's time will give West Coast more clarity on when Allen can return.
In more bad news, second-year midfielder Hewett will be sidelined until about the mid-season bye after the sesamoiditis issues in his feet didn't respond to the rehabilitation exercises prescribed by a Melbourne ballet therapist.
The 19-year-old will have surgery next week.
"When we have more information on the rehabilitation progress of both Elijah and Oscar and projected timelines to return we will provide a further update," West Coast football manager Gavin Bell said in a statement.
Second-year Eagles midfielder Elijah Hewett will be sidelined until about the mid-season bye. (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS)
"This is very disappointing for both players, but we will support them as they work towards a return to play."
Premiership duo Liam Ryan (hamstring) and Dom Sheed (foot) are up to four weeks away from a return, while ruckman Matt Flynn will be sidelined for at least seven more weeks after undergoing hamstring surgery.Â
West Coast will be aiming to rebound from their 50-point loss to Port Adelaide when they host GWS at Optus Stadium on Sunday.
Ryan Maric is expected to replace Allen in West Coast's forward line.Â
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