Ziebell underwent a fitness test on Saturday morning at Aegis Park, but was unable to overcome an ankle injury sustained against Adelaide.
"It felt pretty good from where it's come from this week. It's come a long way, but unfortunately not far enough," the vice-captain told NMFC.com.au.
"It was pretty close, but there was a couple of certain things I couldn't do that I'm required to do. Unfortunately not being able to do them I wouldn't be able to play my role in the team. That's probably the determining factor."
PRESS PLAY above to watch Ziebell's fitness test | YouTube
Thompson will be missed in defence after pulling up sore from the Kangaroos' Round 20 match.
The pair have been replaced by Will Sierakowski and Levi Greenwood in North's 22.
Sierakowski will be the substitute.
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