Adelaide coach Neil Craig insists the axing of forward Brett Burton doesn't signal the end of his AFL career.

Burton has been dropped from Adelaide's side to front North Melbourne on Saturday night, paying for the price for some lean weeks on the Crows' forward line.

The 32-year-old won't play in the SANFL this weekend, but rather embark on a process of strengthening his troublesome right knee.

"To do what he needs to do to get back into our side, we have made the decision that that knee needs to be reconditioned," Craig said on Thursday.

"He still has a very strong desire and a belief he is capable of playing AFL football - this is not Brett Burton saying 'that is it'.

"In actual fact, it's the absolute opposite.

"He is a very determined player and he has still got a belief he can play AFL football, which I endorse."

Burton, who has played 177 games for the Crows, had his right knee reconstructed in 2008 and did not return to AFL ranks until round 16 last season.

After a promising comeback he was given a one-year contract for this season.

Burton's position for Saturday night's Etihad Stadium encounter with the Kangaroos has been taken by 20-year-old Taylor Walker.

Craig said other than the lingering knee issue, Burton's "form wasn't good enough to continue".

"There is nothing acutely wrong with his knee but he believes with some more strengthening and conditioning of that leg he will be able to get back and force his way back," Craig said.

"I think it's a healthy decision for Brett, I love his attitude - he's disappointed because he wants to continue to play ... he wants to get back in our side and he honestly believes he can play at the level.

"But he also does understand that for what I need him to do, he has to be in better shape."

The Crows will also be without Graham Johncock against North because of a shoulder injury.

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