ST KILDA ruckman Michael Gardiner is scheduled to undergofoot surgery and will consequently miss the rest of the season.

Gardiner will have the operation to correct an injury to hissecond metatarso phalangeal joint in his right foot, and is set to be placed onthe club's long-term injury list.

On Tuesday, coach Ross Lyon spoke of Gardiner's injury,which is caused by his unusually shaped feet that force the majority of weightto be carried through his second metatarsal rather than the first.

Lyon also guaranteedGardiner would remain at the club next year, despite failing to play a gamethis season after crossing from the Eagles.

The former All-Australian will use the rest of the season toget his body right for 2008.

"This is obviously disappointing, however the positivenews is that this will now allow me to gain an early preparation for next year,"Gardiner said, in a statement released by the club.

Football operations manager Ken Sheldon echoed Lyon's sentiments and said Gardiner will remain at theclub next season following the completion of his current one-year contract.

"The club's intention is to give Michael everyopportunity to display his undoubted football talent in 2008 and beyond,"Sheldon said.