St Kilda defender Sam Gilbert is out of AFL action for at least a month, but should not require more surgery on his injured foot.

Gilbert was subbed out in the first quarter of Saturday’s loss to West Coast in Perth and was on crutches after hurting his left foot.

He needed an operation in the off-season on the same foot.

The Saints had mixed news on Monday, reporting that there is no new structural damage to the old injury.

But he has severe soreness and bruising, putting him out of action for four to six weeks.

“While we were disappointed to have Sam aggravate his foot injury on the weekend, we are pleased that no new structural damage has been caused and look forward to his return soon,” Saints football director Chris Pelchen said in a statement.