MELBOURNE’S Jack Viney has undergone surgery on his Achilles tendon.

General Manager of AFL Football Performance Alan Richardson provided an update on Viney on Thursday.

“Jack had surgery on his Achilles on Tuesday, and it went really well,” Richardson said.

“It’s been really frustrating for Jack, who has been progressing through this rehab for some time now.

“We wanted to give him the best opportunity to move through rehab without the need for surgical intervention, but unfortunately, he wasn’t responding the way he needed to and as the season drew closer, this was the best option to get him back out on the track.

“He’ll be sidelined for approximately three months, and we’re hopeful that we’ll see him back in the mix for Round 8.

“It’s obviously incredibly disappointing for Jack, but we know he’ll attack this next phase of rehab and continue to play a crucial role in our group over the next few months.”

Jai Culley has successfully undergone surgery on his fractured arm, an injury sustained during last week’s match simulation.

“Jai’s surgery went really well,” Richardson said.

“He should be able to return to running from as early as next week, meaning he’ll be able to maintain his fitness while in rehab.

“We’ll gradually introduce him back into football skills and then contact drills over the next month. Depending on how he responds, we’re confident Jai will be back for the beginning rounds of the season.”

In disappointing news for Kalani White, the young Demon has been sidelined with glandular fever.

“Kalani has returned to Queensland to be with his family while he rests,” Richardson said.

“Our priority is Kalani’s health, so we’ll give him all the time he needs to make sure that he’s right and when he’s ready, we’re looking forward to getting him back in.”