Kayne Turner has suffered another blow after injuring his hamstring in the VFL on Saturday. North medical staff confirmed the issue was not with the leg he experienced previous issues with this season, and expects him to return in about five weeks.

"It hasn't been a great year for Kayne for a number of reasons and this latest setback is frustrating for him," North director of football Geoff Walsh said.

"Early estimates are for a five week rehabilitation period so he could be back before the finals if all goes well."

Meanwhile Taylor Garner is edging closer to his return and has been listed at one week on the club's injury list.

"Taylor will obviously need to comeback through the VFL and get some valuable conditioning before we consider him for the senior side," Walsh added.

North is close to regaining a few key players with the likes of Ben Jacobs and Sam Wright in the final weeks of their recovery from respective foot and ankle issues.

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