Lions utility Brent Staker successfully underwent a minor knee clean-up on Tuesday to remove a small amount of cartilage on his left knee – the opposite knee to last year’s reconstruction which saw him sidelined for the 2012 season.

Staker is expected to miss six to eight weeks.

Staker has played just seven games in the past two seasons after undergoing LARS surgery on his right knee in 2011, then a full reconstruction on the same knee later that year.

Of some consolation for the 28 year-old is that this surgery is on his left knee.

While waiting for his latest operation, Staker told AFL.com.au: "It's only a minor setback compared to what I've been through."

Staker had completed a full pre-season after missing all of 2012 and only began feeling some soreness last week.

He underwent some light rehabilitation work with the club, but had to go in for the minor clean-up.

He is still a chance to play in Round One against the Western Bulldogs on March 30, but more realistically would be available for Round Two against Adelaide.

Staker can play both ends of the ground as a key position player, but has spent the bulk of the pre-season in the forward line and is expected to be a valuable foil for captain Jonathan Brown.

Staker is a $132,600 mid/fwd in AFL Fantasy. Register your team at our AFL Fantasy Hub.

Michael Whiting covers Brisbane Lions news for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting