North Melbourne defender Sam Wright has suffered another setback, with a foot injury sidelining him for up to two months.
The 26-year-old last featured at AFL level in round 11 last year and had surgery on both ankles at the end of the season.
He hasn't played a senior game this season but was set to return next week.
However, Wright reported discomfort in a foot as his training loads were increased nearing his return.
"Scans confirmed there was a minor issue with his sesamoid (bone) following the surgery to his syndesmosis (ankle)," North performance manager Steve Saunders said.
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"We picked this problem up nice and early and Sam will now have a slower than initially expected recovery period.
"We are taking a very measured approach to his rehabilitation and will graduate his over-ground running loads in the coming weeks.
"Our focus has always been on making sure he returns fully fit and is able to have a significant impact."
Injuries have been a factor in the Kangaroos' disappointing 0-4 start to the season, but Brad Scott's side has at least been getting healthier of late.
Other than Wright, Jarrad Waite (shoulder, 2-3 weeks) and Ben Jacobs (foot, 2-3 weeks) are the only other first-team regulars missing through injury.
