Sydney recruit Daniel Menzel is set for more time on the sidelines after re-injuring his groin in training.

The former Geelong man had off-season surgery on his groin and was back training at a high intensity.

"We thought 'Menz' was on track to be playing week five even though he had the operation late, so he was ahead of schedule before his tweak last week,” Sydney coach John Longmire told reporters.

"We can't afford to have too many in that boat of coming in after doing limited amounts of training, so that’s something we'll discuss with Dan when he's closer to playing."

Menzel’s long history with injuries continues with this setback. He has previously had four knee reconstructions.

His presence would have useful for the Swans in round one as they lacked a lot in terms of small forward presence.

However, Menzel isn’t the only one on the sidelines in that role, with Ben Ronke missing round one with a knee injury.

Ronke should be available for round two against Adelaide, while Menzel may not play any footy until round five.