Lussick opted for immediate surgery after x-rays confirmed his troublesome injury had deteriorated since the end of last season.

It is a huge blow to the club with Lussick one of Manly’s best in 2016.

Coach Trent Barrett said the injury was a major blow for both Lussick and the club.

"Darcy has worked really hard on his fitness since the end of last season,'' Barrett said.

"He has impressed everyone with his attitude and he will be missed but we have built our depth across the team and someone else will now have an opportunity."