Sydney could be without Nick Malceski for their AFL grand final qualifier after the star defender hurt his hamstring in Saturday’s 24-point win over Fremantle.

Malceski was subbed out at quarter time of the qualifying final at ANZ Stadium and replaced by Craig Bird after struggling on his left leg.

The 30-year-old managed only three touches before was taken off and into the sheds for treatment midway through the opening term.

“He just felt his hamstring a little bit when he kicked around the body,” Swans coach John Longmire said.

“He’s felt it before a bit, so we thought we’d be right in keeping him going. But he was a bit sore still, so we subbed him out.

“We’ll see how he goes during the week. You don’t know whether it’s (just) tight.

“I’m sure a few people will write what they want to write about it – we don’t know until you have a scan.”

Malceski has been a standout for the Swans this year, playing all 22 matches of the home-and-away season.

In fact, the half-back hasn’t missed a game the past three years and is set to be named a 2014 All Australian.

But with the Swans earning a week off before their preliminary final on September 19, Malceski has some time up his sleeve to recover.

If not, Saturday’s match could well be have been his last in red and white.

Several rival clubs have reportedly expressed interest in the unrestricted free agent, including Hawthorn, Geelong, Essendon and West Coast.

The 174-game veteran has made clear his intention to the club that he wants to hold off on contract negotiations until the end of the season.

His early departure on Saturday was a big loss for the Swans, who struggled early to make up for his crucial drive-forward.

Gary Rohan tried but appeared to overcompensate for his absence, spraying two shots and turning the ball over for a couple of Dockers goals in the first half.