Shaun Higgins is a chance to return to the North line-up this week, after recovering well from that heavy knock from Hawthorn's Ryan Burton.

While the superstar midfielder hasn't been given the green light yet, North GM football Cameron Joyce said all indications were positive at this early stage.

"Shaun will be closely monitored this week and has a few hurdles to jump, but we are happy with how he's presented so far," Joyce said.

"He'll need to be cleared by the medical department and will then have to train well for us to pick him in the side."

Higgins was knocked-out on the same day his wife, Heidi, gave birth to their daughter, Rosie.

"It's been a big few weeks for Shaun, but he's handled everything like the true professional he is," Joyce added.

"We're hopeful that he'll get up to play against Sydney on Saturday night, but if there are any doubts at all, he won't be risked."

In the VFL, Mitch Hibberd has escaped serious damage to his knee, but will have a brief stint on the sidelines after injuring his MCL.

Injury List

Shaun Higgins (concussion) - test
Declan Mountford (ankle) - test
Mitch Hibberd (knee) - 2-3 weeks
Gordon Narrier (hip) - TBC
Declan Watson (knee) - indefinite