Essendon’s worst fears was confirmed on Sunday with news that ruckman David Hille will miss the rest of the 2009 AFL Season after suffering a knee injury against Collingwood on ANZAC Day.

“He will have an operation soon and will begin his rehabiliation immediately after that,” Essendon Football Manager Paul Hamilton said. “We now need some young players to step up and this has been a focus of ours this season – we expect our young players to fill the gap if something like this occurs.”

19 year old Tasmanian Tom Bellchambers is expected to become the Bombers #1 ruck option with Jason Laycock also sidelined with injury.