Western Bulldogs senior coach Luke Beveridge says there is no rush around a return for star midfielder Adam Treloar, as he makes slower-than-expected progress from an ankle syndesmosis injury.

The 28-year-old required surgery following the round 10 win against St Kilda, having established himself as an influential member of the Bulldogs’ midfield early in the season.

But his return to play timeframe has dragged out beyond the initial six-to-eight-week window.

“The important thing with Adam is he’s going to be with us for a long time,” Beveridge told media today.

“We hope to get him back towards the end of the year.

“If for some reason that doesn’t happen and it’s going to take a little bit more time, it’s not going to be a major issue. Glass half full – we’ve got an amazing player who will start next year.

“It’s going to take some time … the surgery was successful, but sometimes you run into some complications here and there. Hopefully he’ll be fine.

“As much as he’ll be frustrated with it, we’ve just got to reassure him that we’re not going to rush you, you’ve got to be 100 per cent and we’ll see how we go.”

Treloar featured prominently in the Bulldogs’ six consecutive wins to start 2021, averaging 26 disposals and a goal per game through that period.

He outlined earlier this week on AFL 360 that he was optimistic of being back this year, despite the longer timeline.

“Initially I was very optimistic that I would be back six weeks post-surgery. I’m very diligent and persistent with my rehab and that would’ve been this week,” Treloar said.

“That’s obviously not going to be the case.

“It’s been a slow process but one that I’m confident that with the right boxes ticked and the way that I can keep pushing forward with my rehab, I’m hoping I can get back towards the end of the season. That’s my aim.

“But there’s no real expectation on what round and when exactly I want to get back, I just want to make sure I’m 100 per cent and when I do get back, I can play my best footy.”