Sydney's Tadhg Kennelly has been ruled out of Saturday's AFL clash with Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium after dislocating his knee.

The Swans believe the dashing defender could miss only the clash with the Power after sustaining the injury in the 91-point win over Essendon at ANZ Stadium on Sunday.

"An MRI on Tadhg Kennelly's left knee today has confirmed a kneecap dislocation with no other damage," a club statement said.

"He will miss this week against Port Adelaide and be tested next week."

While the prognosis on Kennelly was encouraging, the Swans will be wary given the Irishman missed nine games, in four different stints, last season because of knee troubles.

But Swans captain Leo Barry was confident his fellow backman could return promptly given his past experiences and his resilience.

"Obviously having had so many injuries, he's almost become accustomed to it," Barry said.

"Not that you get used to getting injuries, but he's a real professional so hopefully we should have him back on the ground sooner rather than later."

Kennelly's injury soured the Swans' win over Essendon, which also featured the successful return of Nick Malceski, who underwent a knee reconstruction only three months ago.

"To get one player back, and to lose one of our other good players is frustrating," Barry said.

"It would be great to one day have him (Malceski), Tadhg and Marty Mattner all on the field at the same time.

"That's the three we need playing so hopefully it will happen by the end of the year."

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