Carlton have been dealt a massive blow ahead of Saturday’s clash against Gold Coast, with the Blues confirming key swingman Lachie Henderson has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2014 season with a fractured eye socket.

The utility sustained the injury in the final minutes of Thursday night’s match against Fremantle at Patersons Stadium.

He was sent for scans to determine the full extent of the injury, where results revealed Henderson has suffered an orbital and frontal sinus fracture to his face.

It’s a significant setback for Mick Malthouse and his coaching staff, with the three-time premiership mentor already without Andrejs Everitt (knee) and Andrew Walker (knee).

Henderson, in consultation with a specialist, has opted to undergo surgery in Melbourne next week and is expected to commence rehab shortly after.