Russell Robertson's AFL playing future is looking increasingly shaky, with Melbourne coach Dean Bailey admitting to concern about his form.

Bailey said the veteran key forward's situation was "interesting" and added it would be tough if they make a call on Robertson at the end of the season.

Robertson, 30, was benched at the start of the second term of Saturday's loss to Geelong and only managed 0.2 for the game.

He has played 10 games since returning in round six from the Achilles tendon rupture he suffered last season, for a career total of 225.

Saturday was the first time this year he has failed to kick a goal in a game.

"Robbo is an interesting one ... (it's) a hard part of the ground in our football club, when you're not getting it in there as often as you'd like," Bailey said of the high-marking forward.

"Robbo has generally got the best backman playing on him.

"He's certainly not being rested or un-loaded, he's pretty keen to put his best foot forward, but the last couple of weeks, his form probably hasn't been as good.

"At the end of the year, when we sit down and discuss our list management, I'm sure there will be lots of players discussed and he'll be one of them."

But Bailey also stressed that given Robertson's lofty stature at Melbourne, he would have input when the club decides his future.

"All those things about Russell are going to be tough," Bailey said.

"But when you're talking about player's contracts and players' futures, you'd have to understand that those types of discussions would be made with Russell and his management before we sit here and make decisions on players - out of respect.

"You're right, he brings some spirit and life, Russ ... it's a nice ingredient to have."

More immediately, Bailey is yet to decide whether to pick Robertson for Sunday's match against Sydney at Manuka Oval in Canberra.

The Demons will already be without No.1 ruckman Mark Jamar (quad) and impressive young defender Jack Grimes is in doubt with back soreness.

"There are a few players struggling with form, so that will be discussed at match committee," Bailey said.

Jamar's loss will particularly hurt Melbourne because they will face Sydney ruckman Darren Jolly with the inexperienced pairing of Paul Johnson and Stefan Martin.

Jolly has averaged more than 30 hitouts per game this season.

"If you're looking at something against the Swans where you try to get an edge ... it's certainly in the clearances," Bailey said.

"Losing Jamar doesn't help."

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