Ben McKay won’t be available before Essendon’s mid-season bye after scans confirmed a plantar plate rupture for the key defender.

McKay suffered the injury during last week’s win over Richmond, with scans on Monday revealing the extent of his foot injury.

Following consultation with the Club’s medical team, and a number of external experts, it’s been determined that the 27-year-old will require a period of rest to heal.

“Ben suffered the injury in last Friday’s game and while he was able to finish the game, scans have shown he will need a few weeks off now before he’ll be ready to play again,” Essendon’s GM – AFL Daniel McPherson said.

"He’ll offload it in a moonboot for the next couple of weeks before building back up.

“Ben will aim to return to play after the bye and finish the season strongly.”