PORT ADELAIDE midfielder Hugh Jackson has had hip surgery, ruling him out of a period of the club’s pre-season training.

Jackson landed at the club with pick 55 in last month’s AFL National Draft, having impressed playing with North Adelaide in the SANFL under-18 competition.

At his time of being drafted, the club was aware of a hip injury which had troubled the 18-year-old during the 2021 season and surgery was deemed the best long-term option.

“We knew when we drafted Hugh that he’d be a longer-term prospect given his lighter frame and we knew he had had that issue with his hip during the season,” said General Manager – Football, Chris Davies.

“We thought we could either push him through the year and he might battle a little bit or we could try and get him ready and effectively take a longer-term approach.

“His surgery went well and I’m sure he’ll be back to play a decent part in next season.”

Jackson will resume training in the new year and is expected to be on track to play early in the 2022 season.