Former Melbourne AFL captain Brad Green had finger surgery on Tuesday, delaying his bid to return to the senior side for at least four weeks.

The 31-year-old forward suffered a dislocated finger while playing for VFL side Casey last weekend.

Following scans and consultations with specialists late on Monday, the club decided surgery was the best course of action.

“Having surgery now ensures a full recovery and will allow Brad to continue to work hard to regain his position in the senior team,” Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney said.

Green, a veteran of 243 games, struggled in the opening two rounds of the season before being dropped for last weekend’s clash with Richmond.