Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge concedes Adam Treloar might not return from his ankle syndesmosis injury in time to play a role in the AFL club's premiership push this season.
Treloar's rehabilitation is progressing slower than hoped and the Bulldogs have not bet able to set a timeline on his return.
Speaking on Thursday, Beveridge said the star midfielder has "run into some complications" after undergoing surgery in May.
"It's taking a little bit more time and the important thing with Adam is he's going to be with us for a long time, so we just keep an open mind," Beveridge said.
"We hope to get him back towards the end of the year and if for some reason that doesn't happen and it's going to take a little bit more time, it's not going to be a major issue."
Treloar joined the Bulldogs on a five-year deal after being squeezed out of Collingwood during last year's trade period.
The 28-year-old added further depth to a strong midfield group and starred over the first 10 weeks of the season, averaging 25 disposals and four clearances.
Beveridge said the Bulldogs will take a "glass half-full" approach with an eye towards the 2022 season if Treloar can't return to action this year.
"It's a possibility (that he doesn't return this season)," Beveridge said.
"These syndesmosis injuries are obviously significant and some (players) come back really quickly.
"Libba (Tom Liberatore) came back after about five weeks, which was probably a bit too early, in '16, but hasn't had any ill-effects, whereas sometimes your body reacts to surgery in different ways.
"Sometimes you have a bit more swelling or inflammation and it can take a little bit more time to get back on your feet.
"Adam's experiencing some of that and, as much as he'll be frustrated with it, we've just got to reassure him that we're not going to rush him and he's got to be 100 per cent."
Treloar's troubles come at a time when the second-placed Bulldogs are flying high despite concerns over Stefan Martin (groin), Easton Wood (ankle) and Ryan Gardner (shoulder) cropping up in recent weeks.
Tough midfielder Josh Dunkley is still listed as four weeks away from returning from shoulder surgery.
The Bulldogs will start hot favourites against last-placed North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.
