Shaun Higgins has been cleared to play against Gold Coast on Saturday night and is set to provide North with a much needed boost.

The 29-year-old was a late withdrawal for the game against the Dockers last week after reporting some hamstring tightness after main training.

Senior Performance Consultant Steve Saunders said Higgins only has to train well this week but is expected to return.

"Provided Shaun gets through main training tomorrow, he will play," Saunders told NMFC.com.au.

"He was touch-and-go last week and presented well the day before the game. The decision was ultimately made not to take any risk with him. We're very confident he will line up on Saturday night."

Meanwhile Ben McKay will miss the next 2-3 weeks with hip/groin issues.

"Ben has had a gradual onset of symptoms related to the bilateral hip surgery he had in the pre-season," Saunders explained.

"He will need a few weeks to allow the inflammation to settle and to improve his strength sufficiently in that area. Our focus is on ensuring he can have a solid and sustained run at playing when he returns."

Jack Ziebell, Todd Goldstein and Ben Brown all face tests ahead of the Round 6 clash at Etihad Stadium.

For more NMFC injury news and the full injury list, visit the Anytime Fitness Health Hub