THE SYDNEY Swans are hopeful scans on injured Irishman Tadhg Kennelly’s knee will reveal minimal damage and the star defender will be okay to return within weeks.

Swans’ coaching co-ordinator John Longmire said on Monday morning that despite dislocating his left knee Kennelly could be back soon.

Kennelly, 26, will have scans today after injuring the knee during the Swans’ 91-point thrashing of Essendon at ANZ Stadium on Sunday.

“It just depends on the damage that’s associated with it,” Longmire told SEN radio.

“Some times you don’t miss any games but sometimes if there’s some damage to the ligaments and maybe bone bruising you might have to miss a few.

“We won’t know until the scan’s done.”

Longmire acknowledged Kennelly’s tough run in recent times.

He dislocated his right knee last season, the injury crippling his season while shoulder troubles have also hampered his progress in past seasons.

“He’s had a bit of a rough trot of it the last couple of years, Tadhg,” Longmire said.

There was better news on the injury front for the Swans regarding Nick Malceski, whose successful return from a knee reconstruction was another bright note on a day when the Kennelly blow threatened to cast a shadow over the day.

“I think in regards to anyone who comes back from knee recos, whether it be standard practice or the one that Nick’s had it doesn’t really matter, you’re always hopeful that the player gets through,” Longmire said.

“To get through the game, have 10 possessions, play 72 minutes was a good start.

“There’s a long way to go but it was a good start.”