WEST Coast's Tim Houlihan has started 2010 on the sidelines after lacerating his foot in a domestic accident.

The club confirmed that the 20-year-old was in his home town in Victoria over the Christmas break when the accident took place.

Houlihan has been unable to train with his teammates this week and will have tests on Thursday to determine the severity of the injury.

The lightly-framed wingman has played 15 games since joining the Eagles via pick 43 in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft.

Houlihan made his debut in 2008 to play eight games but despite good WAFL form with East Fremantle, had to wait until round 16 of last season to add to his tally.