MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 02: Lincoln McCarthy of the Cats kicks the ball away from Luke McDonald of the Kangaroos during the round two AFL match between the Geelong Cats and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Etihad Stadium on April 2, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

Injury prone Geelong small forward, Lincoln McCarthy has suffered another setback.

The 23-year-old has struggled to string games together at senior level due to countless injuries.

McCarthy, who has already missed two full seasons in his short career due to foot injuries, will miss the next eight weeks due to a groin injury.

The club had hoped the injury would heal with rest, however, has now opted to send him in for surgery.

"The issue with Linc's groin did not improve, and the medical experts believe this procedure is the best way to treat the injury," Geelong football manager Steve Hocking said.

"There was a chance that the injury would improve through rest and rehabilitation, but we have not seen any progress and after further evaluation it was determined that surgery was required.

"Linc will begin his rehabilitation and we will assess when he is capable of returning."

McCarthy played 19 games last season, however, has only played a total of 27 games in his five years at the club. He played the opening three games this season before succumbing to injury.