John Barker could follow fellow Hawthorn key forward Nick Holland out of the AFL unless he proves his fitness by the end of the year.

Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson is hopeful Barker will be at the club next season, but adds there is plenty of hard work ahead.

Holland announced his retirement this week and Barker is out of contract at the end of this season.

Barker has played only six senior games this season, missing mostly because of a leg injury.

"He knows that he's in the twilight of his career and that he needs to have a really solid pre-season to convince us and convince himself that he can go around next year," Clarkson said of the 30-year-old.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP