Fremantle have received mixed news on star ruckman Aaron Sandilands – he will need hamstring surgery, but should return midway through this AFL season.

The three-time All-Australian consulted with surgeon Julian Feller in Melbourne on Monday after aggravating the injury to his left hamstring.

The Dockers announced on Monday night that Sandilands will be out of action for eight to 12 weeks.

“It’s very disappointing for Aaron and the club but with the appropriate period of recovery and a structured rehabilitation program, it is possible he will be available for selection mid-way through the season,” said Fremantle football manager Chris Bond.

“But at this stage we will have to wait until after his surgery and the recovery phase before we can be more specific about when Aaron will be available for selection.”

Sandilands originally tore the muscle during the pre-season and was expected to return in round two.

But he aggravated the injury last week and that forced the Melbourne visit.