DANIEL Wells is set for an extended period on the sidelines after scans revealed he requires surgery on a foot injury sustained during Monday's Queen's Birthday clash.

Wells left the ground late in the second quarter of Collingwood's 42-point victory over Melbourne after falling awkwardly on his foot, but returned after half-time to complete the game.

However, the Magpies confirmed on Tuesday night that scans have since revealed high-grade damage to the Lisfranc ligament in his left foot, as well as related bone separation.

"Unfortunately for Daniel, an operation is required. We'll know what that means, in terms of the rest of this season, after the surgery but it is reasonable to expect that it is a long-term injury," Collingwood football boss Geoff Walsh said.

"Clearly, it's a bitter pill for Daniel to swallow. He had spent a lot of time getting into strong physical shape and, back in the team, he was working his way into the season."

Monday was Wells' fourth game for the year after he missed the start of the season due to Achilles soreness.

The 33-year-old played only 10 games in his maiden season at Collingwood in 2017, having dealt with a calf problem throughout the campaign.