WESTERN Bulldogs youngster Caleb Daniel will miss at least a month after undergoing minor knee surgery on Thursday.

Daniel, the AFL's shortest player at 168cm, suffered the injury during training last week and underwent surgery to repair the meniscus in his left knee.

He is expected to resume training within a fortnight, but is unlikely to play at any level for six weeks.

Meanwhile, Tom Liberatore has returned to the club to commence his rehabilitation following a knee reconstruction last month.

The midfielder began his strength program on Thursday after having a splint removed.

Clay Smith is nearing a return to competitive football after nine months on the sidelines with a knee injury.

The 21-year-old has impressed on the track recently and is expected to return to the field in the next fortnight.