Western Bulldogs star Lachie Hunter will miss tomorrow night’s blockbuster clash against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.

Hunter was pushing to make a remarkable recovery after having surgery to repair a broken hand on Monday.

He had been influential in the second half of the Bulldogs’ come-from-behind win against Carlton last week, while playing with the injury.

Senior coach Luke Beveridge was optimistic around Hunter’s chances of playing on Friday morning before training.

However, Hunter was unable to get through the session due to the injury and has been ruled out of this week’s match.

It is anticipated he could be ready to return next week, with the Bulldogs to host St Kilda at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night.