RICHMOND’S Chris Knights is facing another major setback, with the unlucky utility facing a lengthy stint on the sidelines.

Knights was subbed of last Saturday night’s win against the Brisbane Lions after injuring his hamstring.

He was playing his first game at AFL level since round seven, 2013, when he ripped his patella tendon off the bone.

On Monday evening, Richmond said scans had revealed damage to Knights’ hamstring tendon, which will require surgery.

The former Crow will be on the sidelines for 10-12 weeks.

"We’re really feel for Chris, as he showed on the weekend he could still make an impact at the highest level," Richmond’s general manager of football Dan Richardson said.

"We have no doubt Chris will attack his rehab with the same determination he has shown over the last 24 months, and we will support him through that."

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick was upset when asked about Knights’ injury after the win against the Lions.

"It's disappointing for the young fella," Hardwick said. "He's made his way back in the side, he's had a tough journey. We feel for him.

"It's a sad state of affairs."

Meanwhile, Richmond also revealed vice-captain Brett Deledio would be an unlikely starter for Friday night’s clash against Melbourne as he battles a calf issue.

Defender Dylan Grimes is expected to miss one more week with a hamstring injury.

However, midfielder Reece Conca has recovered from a hamstring injury and is set join in full training this week.