An AFL umpire has been left red-faced after being caught directing an expletive towards Brisbane young gun Levi Ashcroft last week, 7NEWS Melbourne’s Mitch Cleary has revealed.

Ashcroft argued for a free kick following a big bump during a practice match against Gold Coast — but he got more than he bargained for in return.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: AFL umpire red-faced after being caught swearing at Levi Ashcroft.

The umpire later admitted he overstepped the mark.

An apology was issued and accepted the next day, with the umpire avoiding any sanction.

Ashcroft, making his unofficial debut, had already been felled after disposal by Ben Long, prompting remonstration from the Lions.

He was then crunched by Leo Lombard in the incident that led to the umpire’s reaction.

Lombard came off second-best and suffered a suspected right shoulder dislocation, with the Suns on Monday confirming he would miss the start of the season and could yet require surgery.

“After receiving the scan results, Leo will consult with a specialist this week to determine the best course of action for his injury,” head physio Lindsay Bull said.

“We will prioritise Leo’s long-term health so expect he will miss some time as he rehabilitates his shoulder, with a timeline to be determined in due course.”

Ashcroft’s premiership-winning older brother Will was also in the thick of the action during the same match.

The Norm Smith medallist struck Gold Coast star Matt Rowell with an elbow.

Rowell nudged Ashcroft in the back as the ball trickled over a boundary line during the second of three games featuring the Queensland clubs and Collingwood.

Ashcroft, with his back to Rowell, landed a short jab with his right elbow to Rowell’s chest which momentarily stunned the midfielder.

Rowell hunched over after the blow but, after being given a free kick, continued playing.

- with AAP