Kruse has battled a hamstring injury throughout the pre-season, with Victory electing not to risk the 31-year-old in Saturday's Melbourne City derby.

"Robbie has been working tirelessly to overcome a hamstring issue and get his body ready, however at this stage we still have some work to do with him," Victory general manager of football Paul Trimboli said in a statement.

"As well as recovering from the injury, Robbie needs time to improve his fitness and ensure he is 100 per cent ready for the intensity that is demanded in the A-League.

"Given the nature of his injury and the length of the season, we won't be taking any risks and will treat his comeback cautiously."