Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin has revealed emerging midfielder Caleb Windsor has been hospitalised with another foot infection.

The 19-year-old missed part of the pre-season with a previous infection but bounced back to record 16 disposals and a goal in the Demons’ narrow loss to GWS in Round 1.

But he pulled up sore again after that match and received treatment throughout the week.

Still in hospital on Friday, Windsor has now been ruled out of Sunday’s clash with North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.

“It is a bit of a setback ... he’s actually been in hospital having some antibiotics,” Goodwin said.

“It’s all heading in the right direction and he should be out in the next day or so.

“He won’t play this week but it’s very short-term and we just need to make sure we get on top of that infection.”

Elsewhere at the club, veteran defender Steven May remains a short-term injury prospect as he seeks specialist advice on his fractured larynx.

May was a late withdrawal from the Demons’ clash with the Giants and is unavailable for the clash with North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.

The 33-year-old will see a specialist over the weekend to determine the next course of action.

“We’ll have a bit more of an update on where it sits from there,” Goodwin said on Friday.

“He’s progressing really well. He’s got his voice back and speaking, which is good.”

Max Gawn was out of action for six weeks over summer with a similar injury but the Demons are adamant May’s setback is less serious.

“It’s definitely not as bad as that,” Goodwin said.

“It’s probably more shorter term than longer term, and once we get that specialist report we’ll be able to give a bit more information.”

Goodwin will make at least two changes to his side to face North Melbourne after forward Aidan Johnson was handed a one-match ban for a dangerous tackle.

The coach took a glass half-full approach to his review of the last-minute defeat to GWS, after Melbourne held the upper hand through three quarters.

He was particularly pleased with his reunited midfield group, as Christian Petracca showed glimpses of his best on return from injury.

Petracca combined well with Clayton Oliver, Jack Viney and ruckman Gawn before GWS got on top in the midfield during the decisive final term.

“To get them all back together operating well inside the centre square and around clearance is really important for us,” Goodwin said.

“Like for any team, to have your best players up and running and impacting the game is significant.

“To have those guys doing what they do - and you can see where they’re going to get to - is exciting for our supporters.”

- with 7NEWS