Jack Gunston, who has booted 35 goals for Hawthorn this season, is confirmed to miss their clash against Gold Coast on Friday night with a niggling foot concern.

The injury initially flared up in the second half of the 34-year-old’s game against St Kilda in Round 12 and was rested in the final quarter due to the foot injury.

Hawthorn hoped that the key forward would make his return post-bye, but there are now growing concerns that the injury may be more severe than first thought.

Speaking on SEN Breakfast, Tim Watson posed the question to his co-host Garry Lyon: "How serious is it to Hawthorn’s premiership chances if Gunston couldn’t play another game this season?"

Lyon explained that he believes the Hawks can contend, but absolutely cannot achieve the ultimate glory without their veteran spearhead.

“I don't think they could win it without him. You know what I think about Jack Gunston,” Lyon exclaimed.

“I think they can contend, I think they're a very good side, (but) I think their midfield is the question.

“(Mitch) Lewis played well in (Gunston’s) absence (against the Dogs), his game elevated, but I think they'd be light on.

“I still think they might be one light from winning the premiership, but I don't think they could do it without Jack Gunston.”

Watson couldn’t agree with Lyon’s synopsis though. The former player and coach believes that Hawthorn can still win the flag but need to start performing more consistently.

“No, I still think they can,” Watson stated.

“They've got to get their skates on though because they haven't been able to consistently perform at the higher levels that we saw them last year.

“I don't think we've seen enough of that this season, so they've got to correct that. They need to get rolling and start to build a little bit of momentum in the way they play.”

Hawthorn are currently sitting at fifth on the ladder with eight wins next to their name, and are favourites to defeat Gold Coast on Friday night.