The absence of Adam Ramanauskas from Essendon appears likely to be longer than first suggested after surgery to remove a lump from his upper body.

The Bombers said Ramanauskas was "resting comfortably" after the surgery, which he was very confident would show the lump to be benign.

However, the club said he would resume training "in the next few weeks and be ready to play shortly afterwards", indicating it could be some time before he returns to the AFL arena.

The lump was picked up in a massage a month ago and he played in the opening three matches of the season.

He had been keen to put off surgery until the mid-season break, but the club insisted he have the operation now.

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