Richmond small forward Jake King is likely to miss the next 8-10 weeks of football through injury.

King requires a further procedure on a troublesome toe, which has plagued him since late last year.

The 30-year-old has played four games so far in 2014 (two in the AFL and two in the VFL), but sat out last week’s match after feeling soreness in his toe – the same one he had operated on after the 2013 season.

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“It’s disappointing for Jake and the team to have him sidelined for a significant period,” said Richmond’s General Manager of Football, Dan Richardson.

“He’s a very tough character, and is no stranger to playing under duress.  As much as he was prepared to push through, it didn’t make sense for him to continue to play in pain. 

“We’re sure Jake will be diligent in his rehab, and hopeful he will be fully fit later in the year.”

King has been placed on the long term injury list, opening up the possibility of the Club elevating one of its rookies to the senior list.

However, a decision is yet to be made on any potential rookie upgrade.