GOLD Coast has suffered a blow, with midfielder Ben Ainsworth set to miss six weeks after foot surgery.

The 21-year-old suffered the injury in Saturday night's loss to Geelong.

He went off the ground in the first quarter after an awkward tackle and returned to the field, but his night was finished in the third quarter and he was on crutches and in a moon boot after the game.

The Suns confirmed Ainsworth underwent surgery on Monday night to repair the small break to his third metatarsal in his foot and will be sidelined until likely mid-July.

It is a frustrating setback for Ainsworth, who has emerged as a key player for the Suns as they look to push up the ladder.

AROUND THE STATE LEAGUES Dons mid fires, Harley roars on return

He has enjoyed a strong start to this season, including a two-goal and 20-disposal effort against Melbourne in round eight.

The No.4 pick from the 2016 NAB AFL Draft has played 37 games for the Suns, including 16 last season when he averaged 15 disposals a game.

Ainsworth's absence will hurt the Suns, who travel to Sydney this week to take on the Giants on Saturday.