GEELONG midfielder George Horlin-Smith will miss Saturday's clash against Melbourne after fracturing his thumb in the last minute of the one-point win against North Melbourne.

He hurt his hand in the incident that led to him kicking the match-winning goal after a free kick, and needed surgery to fix the injury.

The club is optimistic Horlin-Smith will miss only one week, with his absence leaving the door open for Sam Menegola to play his first game for the season after he performed well in a VFL practice match last Sunday.

Geelong coach Chris Scott said it was bad luck for the persistent on-baller after he experienced a career highlight on Sunday to win the game for the Cats.

"It was in the last contest. The adrenalin was pumping and he didn't think it was too bad, especially after he kicked that goal," Scott said.

Midfielder Cam Guthrie remains doubtful as he recovers from a calf injury, but ruckman Zac Smith is a potential inclusion following a strong return in the VFL last week.

Scott said the suspensions of Melbourne pair Jordan Lewis and Jesse Hogan made the Demons slightly less predictable, although they remained a strong opponent.

"They don't want for midfield depth," Scott said.

"We don't see too many holes in their team."

The Cats coach did not expect the suspended duo's absence to influence Geelong's approach at selection.

With Bernie Vince likely to replace Lewis, Scott said Demons ruckman Jake Spencer would likely fill the forward-line hole left by Hogan.