WESTERN Bulldogs skipper Matthew Boyd will miss Saturday night's clash against Port Adelaide after suffering a minor calf strain.

The loss opens the door for the return of veteran midfielder Daniel Cross or emerging youngster Mitch Wallis, both having spent last week in the VFL.

The injury affects the opposite leg to the calf strain that saw Boyd miss three weeks at the beginning of the year and is said to be less severe.

Boyd is expected to be available after the bye weekend in round 11, as is teammate Adam Cooney.