MELBOURNE president Jim Stynes will have surgery next week as he continues his fight against cancer.

Stynes will have surgery on Wednesday to remove a tumour in his stomach, with doctors expecting a two to three week recovery period.

The former Demon great has spent the past two days in hospital after he fronted a media conference on Monday afternoon to explain the reasons behind Dean Bailey's sacking as Melbourne coach.

His former teammates Todd Viney and Garry Lyon have stepped up to take significant roles with the Demons this week, both suggesting they had done so to lighten the load on their close friend.

Stynes has been battling cancer for the past two years, with Melbourne vice-president Don McLardy stepping up to help him in the role.

Despite the fact he is in hospital, Stynes is hopeful of making it to the MCG on Saturday to watch Melbourne do battle with Carlton.