GEELONG small forward Cory Gregson will miss the start of the home and away season after suffering a setback with his troublesome foot.

Gregson underwent surgery this week to remove a screw that started causing him discomfort over the Christmas break and he won't return to light training for at least 10 weeks.

The Cats' round-one opener against Fremantle at Domain Stadium is in about nine weeks time on March 26.

Gregson first experienced issues with his foot last July, when he underwent surgery to repair a navicular stress fracture which ruled him out for the remainder of Geelong's campaign.

The Cats missed his spark in attack and now the 20-year-old is facing another lengthy stint on the sidelines.

"Cory’s recovery has been steady, but these types of injuries take time to heal and fully recover," general manager of football Steve Hocking said. 

"Unfortunately Cory has been experiencing some pain and surgery was the preferred option to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. 

"We expect Cory to return to light training duties in around 10 weeks."

Gregson burst onto the scene for the Cats in his debut season in 2015, booting 13 goals from 20 games and earning a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in round six.

But a combination of inconsistent form and his foot injury restricted the speedster to nine games and four goals last season.