The co-coach has led the way for the Rovers this season, but the responsibility will fall to the emerging midfield group to get the job done against the winless Roos.

“My hamstring isn't too bad, it's my left one, which I haven't injured before,” he said.

“It's about as minor as you can get, but it's bad enough not to play this weekend.

“With the bye next week, I'm better off coming back fully fit.”

Despite being given a run for their money by the Roos in round six, Carpenter said he still preferred to look internally.

“We're not in a position to take any side lightly,” he said.

“We just have to be good for four quarters and control the game.

“We did it against North Albury, but we dropped away last week.”