Kelly hasn’t played since round four with recent scans revealing nerve damage coming from his back.

“I couldn’t work out what was going on but I had scans on Saturday which pretty much showed up a pinched sciatic that’s referring straight down into my hammy,” he said.

“There isn’t a tear, it’s more nerves.

“It’s been frustrating because I haven’t been able to run too much and haven’t had any power.

“I’m hopeful of getting back after the bye but it’s a slow process and it will depend on the rehab.”

Wangaratta is desperate for the tough midfielder to return as it strives to stay in touch with the top five.

The Magpies trail fifth-placed North Albury by two premiership points after upsetting Wodonga Raiders last weekend but face ladder leader Albury at Norm Minns Oval on Saturday.

Kelly had no idea of the seriousness of the injury after feeling tightness in his hamstring before round one.

“I carried it into round one not thinking anything of it,” he said.

“By round four it was knackered and I could hardly run.

“It gradually came on and got worse and worse.

“I guess I’m just glad to see some improvement again.”

The setback has come as a surprise for Kelly after he played through the 2014 and 2015 seasons without missing a match.

Key forward Michael Newton is set to miss at least another week due to a calf injury he suffered at work in the lead-up to the clash against Wodonga late last month.