North Melbourne is aiming to achieve an earliest possible return date for Daniel Wells by sending him in for a minor procedure around his Achilles.

Director of Football Geoff Walsh said the decision was made on Monday to help the 30-year-old advance his recovery and get back on the field sooner.

“Our medical team and specialists believe this minor procedure should help Daniel get over the last little hurdle in relation to this injury,” Walsh told NMFC.com.au.

“Daniel’s progress has been steady and he has worked extremely hard in his rehabilitation to push forward but unfortunately there were times where his recovery stalled. Our advice is that a minor surgical procedure on the structures around the Achilles should allow him to train pain free.

“Daniel stepped up his training intensity over the past few weeks but wasn’t able to take things to the next level and this intervention is designed to assist and fast track to that final stage of recovery.”

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Wells hasn’t played since Round 2 following an Achilles tendon injury after North’s win over Brisbane.

“It’s been very frustrating for him but hopefully he’ll be ready for a return late in the season,” Walsh said.

If the move is a success, the Kangaroos could have the classy veteran back in between Rounds 19 and 20.

“Having Daniel back for the final stages of the season would be a huge boost to our fortunes. He’s an integral part of our team and has been sorely missed to this point,” Walsh said.