Reigning Brownlow Medallist Nat Fyfe will not play again in season 2016.

The 24-year-old had surgery last month to insert a plate in his fibula after fracturing his left leg in Fremantle’s loss to Carlton in round five at Domain Stadium.

Fyfe suffered a similar injury to his left leg in last year’s Preliminary Final loss to Hawthorn and subsequently underwent surgery to insert a plate in his fibula.

The plate that was inserted after Fyfe’s most recent surgery is due to be removed by the mid to late season mark, which will be followed a period of rehabilitation.

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General manager of football operations Chris Bond said the decision was based on medical advice.

“It’s disappointing for Nat and our members and supporters but we will always act in the best long-term interests of a player’s health and well-being,” Bond said.

“Based on clear medical advice Nat will not be available to play again in 2016.

“He is due to have the plate removed later in the year and will then undergo a carefully planned period of rehabilitation.

“Our medical advice is that if Nat completes the rehabilitation phase without any setbacks he will be fit and available to start the 2017 pre-season on schedule.”