Ankle surgery likely for Bulldog Wallis

Western Bulldogs midfielder Mitch Wallis is likely to undergo ankle surgery in the coming days, leaving his chances of being involved in the Dogs' run to the finals in grave doubt.

Wallis, 26, hasn't played at AFL level since round 10 because of a stress-related issue in his ankle. He returned via the VFL earlier this month and has got through two games in a row at the lower level, but The Age understands he remains hampered by the issue.

While an official decision has not yet been made, it's believed the club is leaning towards sending Wallis in for surgery within a week.

The tough midfielder missed the 2016 premiership win after breaking his leg late in the season although his ankle issue is unrelated.

The Dogs could regain Tom Liberatore from a knee injury for this week's match against St Kilda but are set to lose Toby McLean to a hamstring injury suffered in Sunday's win over Melbourne.

Caleb Daniel is also closing in on a return from a hamstring injury.