During Melbourne’s two-point loss to the Western Bulldogs, Lampard's first game of the season, she went down in the second quarter.

She injured her hamstring in Melbourne’s pre-season practice match against Collingwood in January, which forced her to the sideline for most of the season.

Although shattered by her news, Lampard was optimistic about her future in the game.

“Obviously I'm devastated about the outcome, but I'm sure I'll come out the other side a better person for it,” she said.

“Fortunately, I've got a great support crew behind me.

"The entire family at Melbourne, from players to staff, have been incredible already with their positivity and support during my recent stint in rehab, with my hamstring - and I know they'll be there during this next phase.

“Melissa Hickey, Ainslie Kemp and I will be able to support and challenge each other during our rehab to get the best out of ourselves and return stronger in 2019," Lampard said.