Gold Coast SUNS recruit Jesse Lonergan will miss the start of the 2013 season after injuring his  hand in the GC SUNS 25-point win over Melbourne at Southport on Saturday.

Lonergan fell awkwardly on his left hand late in the third quarter.

Scans following the game revealed that Lonergan had fractured his left hand and is expected to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks.

GC SUNS General Manager Football Operations Marcus Ashcroft confirmed the results to goldcoastfc.com.au

"Unfortunately scans have revealed a fracture in Jesse's hand."

"Jesse has had a fantastic pre-season and had done everything possible to gain selection for the first game of the season."

"While the injury is extremely disappointing for Jesse, he will be back training and available for selection in the early part of the season."