West Coast have suffered a massive blow after it was revealed ruckman Scott Lycett may not return from knee surgery until midway through next season.

Lycett was originally set to be available for round one after undergoing a PCL reconstruction during the off-season.

Eagles ruckman Scott Lycett isn't likely to be ready until early-to-midway through next season. Credit:Getty Images

But coach Adam Simpson says Lycett isn't likely to be ready until early-to-midway through next season.

With Lycett and Nic Naitanui (knee) both injured, journeyman Jonathan Giles is set to lead the club's ruck division, with new recruits Drew Petrie and Nathan Vardy left to fight it out to be his back-up.