LIONHEARTED Darcy Gardiner will miss the remainder of the season after it emerged he requires his shoulder and ankle reconstructed.

The banged-up defender, who routinely punches above his weight, was subbed out early in the 21-point loss to the Swans on Sunday after dislocating his shoulder.

Gardiner has developed a reputation for his willingness to play through pain and was attempting to make it through to the end of the season with his injuries.

The knock to the shoulder put an end to that and he will now undergo multiple rounds of surgery, starting next week.

The ankle will be done first so he can use his arms with the crutches he will need for a month or so and then the shoulder will be rebuilt.

Football manager Dean Warren said that Gardiner’s loss was a blow to the Lions.

“He is a lovely kid, quiet around the club but once he crosses the line he is fiercely competitive, that’s what we love about him,’’ Warren said.

“He does big jobs for us, he gives away a bit in size and obviously experience but for a young kid most of the time is very hard to play on, he prides himself on that.’’

To see the full injury list, visit the BUPA health Centre