The Fremantle Dockers are collectively feeling for luckless forward Michael Apeness after he suffered a broken collarbone in last week’s clash with Essendon, according to senior coach Ross Lyon.

Apeness injured his collarbone in a heavy collision with Brendan Goddard and Lyon said the incident was a downside of the key forward’s physical brand of football.

“We’re really feeling for Michael, he was operated on last night and he had a plate inserted,” Lyon said.

“He plays a really physical game.

“It was a really good hit on Goddard and he was quite protected but sometimes it’s just the angle and two big men hitting (each other).”

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While Lyon approved of Apeness’ intent and attack on the ball, he said the big man’s technique may have to be tweaked to avoid similar incidents in the future.

“That’s something we have spoken about,” he said.

“We know he has eyes for the ball and sometimes you have to refine their technique to improve their durability and that’s something we’ll work on.

“It’s a six week injury and he’ll be back playing but you’d like him to have a bit more regard for his own body and safety.”

Apeness has played three games since his debut in 2014, but Lyon said his latest injury was an isolated incident and shouldn’t be seen in a similar light to his recent injuries.

“He hasn’t had much continuity, but it hasn’t been upper body (injuries), it was an ACL before he got here (to Fremantle) and then a PCL injury.”