WESTERN Bulldogs forward Brooke Lochland remains an outside chance to play in the upcoming NAB AFLW season after undergoing surgery on her fractured right fibula.

The 2018 AFLW leading goalkicker suffered the injury during Saturday's practice match seven-point win against Collingwood at Mars Stadium, Ballarat.

The club has said she is expected to be fully recovered in six to eight weeks, putting an earliest possible return at round six of the seven-week AFLW season.

Coach Paul Groves had previously told the club website the injury was upsetting for the 27-year-old.

"It's disappointing for Brooke because she's done a mountain of work this pre-season," Groves said.

Lochland won the competition's goalkicking award in part due to a record-goal haul of seven against Carlton in round four last year.

Draftee Kate Bartlett could slot into Lochland's position, while Irish recruit Aisling McCarthy could be another option.