INJURED Melbourne ruckman Max Gawn could return as early as next Sunday's clash with the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium.

The 25-year-old needed surgery to repair the right hamstring he injured against Geelong in round three.

Gawn, who was initially expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks, said he remained on target for an earlier than anticipated comeback.

"It feels as good as it can," Gawn told Channel Seven on Sunday evening.

"I've had two knee reconstructions and tendons taken out of everywhere on this leg, so at the moment, it's going well.

"I trained on Saturday with the boys and was best on, so if I keep that form going, I should be all right."

Gawn will have to get through training next week before being declared fully fit to take on the Western Bulldogs.

If Gawn takes the field next weekend, he will have missed eight matches.

Melbourne takes on Collingwood on Queen's Birthday (Monday) for the Big Freeze 3 at the MCG.