HAWTHORN defender Matt Suckling appears certain to miss Friday night's clash against Collingwood, but the club is confident he will only miss one match and return for finals.  

Suckling, who has played every game this season, was substituted out of the Hawks' come-from-behind win over Geelong at half-time in round 22 after suffering a minor knee injury.

"I’d say it’s very unlikely that he’ll play this week," football manager Chris Fagan told hawthornfc.com.au.

"Hopefully he’ll be right for the following week but he’s almost a certainty not to play (this week)."

Fagan said sharpshooter Jack Gunston, who trained strongly on Tuesday, was certain to face the Pies after appearing to roll an ankle against Geelong, 

"We fully expect he’ll take his place in the team on Friday night," Fagan said. 

Fagan said Cyril Rioli was progressing well in his recovery from a hamstring injury, but he is still listed as a 2-3 week prospect on the club's injury list. 

Young forward Tim O'Brien, who broke into the team against Fremantle in round 21, has been ruled out for the season after suffering a hamstring injury in the VFL.