Carlton's Ciaran 'Gussy' Sheehan is being placed on the Club's long-term injury list following surgery this week.

Sheehan had hip surgery on Monday after the onset of Osteitis Pubis – a condition which causes pain the groin area.

He'll undergo further surgery next week.

Carlton's Head of Football Andrew McKay says it's unclear when the 24-year-old Irishman will be able to return to playing.

"After consultation with a specialist we decided surgery was the best course of action for Ciaran," McKay said.

"The recovery time from something like this is generally 12 weeks, so it's likely Ciaran will be able to play again late in the season, but we'll obviously make that decision in consultation with medical staff based on his recovery."

Sheehan has played four AFL games since being upgraded from the rookie list and making his debut in Round 20 last year against the Gold Coast.