DYNAMIC Geelong forward Steve Johnson has undergone an arthroscopy in
an effort to correct the hip complaint that has troubled him in the
second half of the season.

Johnson enjoyed a stellar start to the season and was on pace to
collect a third All-Australian nod in succession before the injury
forced him onto the sidelines following the Cats' round-13 win over
Port Adelaide.

The Norm Smith Medallist returned in round 18, but further aggravated
the injury against the Sydney Swans in round 20 and was again forced to
watch from the stands.

Johnson, 26, was sent to consult with a specialist in Hobart during the
week and the decision was made to go ahead with the operation on Friday.

"The procedure will give Steve the best chance to return and play at
the level that we are used to," Cats general manager of football
operations Neil Balme said.

"Without the surgery it is unlikely he could have played through the
finals as it had deteriorated to the point that he could not play
without significant pain and restricted movement."

Despite the club's optimism, news of the surgery is a further blow to
the Cats who are struggling to settle their side on the eve of the
finals.

Coach Mark Thompson has been forced to deal with injuries to first team
regulars Tom Harley, Paul Chapman, James Kelly, Matthew Scarlett and
Harry Taylor to name a few over the past month.

Big loss for them, they should be able to recover though.