Sam Wright will be forced to bide his time on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on his ankle on Tuesday night.

Wright jarred his ankle in a game, causing a dislodge of cartilage.

The minor operation will put Wright in a rehabilitation program for three to four weeks.

“While it’s only a minor clean-out we will be cautious and measured with his recovery,” North GM football Cameron Joyce said.

“If everything goes to plan we expect to see Sam back just after the bye round. In the meantime, we will work with him to ensure he has everything needs for a full recovery.”

Since returning in Round 7 last season after previous foot and ankle troubles , the 28-year-old has managed 20 games, including 4 this year.