The possible return of Shaun Higgins this week will bolster North Melbourne’s hopes of knocking over Brisbane at the GABBA on Saturday night.

The Lions are sitting third on the ladder after a convincing 49-point win over Port Adelaide meaning Higgins’ inclusion couldn’t come at a better time for North.

"I saw the surgeon on Thursday and everything is going well," Higgins told Channel Seven's AFL Game Day.

The star midfielder is recovering from an AC joint injury suffered in Round 12 against the Gold Coast.

"I'll likely be back soon, hopefully one of them [the next two games] but to be honest I need to tick a number of boxes still. Fingers crossed I'll be out there," he said.

If the 31-year-old plays, it will be just five and a half weeks since he had the injury repaired.

"I've done a progression over the past few weeks and that will have to continue over the next three to four days then make a call.”