Western Bulldogs forward Robert Murphy's injury-interrupted season has been put on pause again - this time a hamstring strain sending him to the AFL sidelines.

Murphy, who missed the entire pre-season and opening month of the season with a knee injury, twinged his hamstring in the first quarter of his side's seven-point win over Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday.

The lead-up forward was just starting to return to his best form, booting four goals against Adelaide last weekend.

But the 26-year-old lasted less than a quarter against the Demons, hobbling off as his hamstring gave way.

Coach Rodney Eade said Murphy was likely to miss at least a fortnight, including the clash with red-hot Geelong at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.

"He twisted in the air and then as he landed, rotated his body a bit and felt a bit of a twinge," Eade said.

"We don't think it's too serious but obviously he'll miss a couple."

Murphy is expected to have scans on Sunday.

The good news for the Bulldogs is they do have a ready-made replacement in youngster Shaun Higgins, who has missed the past two matches with groin soreness.

Eade said Higgins should be fit to play the Cats and would replace Murphy assuming he trained well this week.

Bulldogs defender Ryan Hargrave, a late withdrawal from the 15.14 (104) to 15.7 (97) win over the Demons with thigh soreness, is also expected to be available to play Geelong.

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