Lenny Hayes will miss Sunday’s clash against North Melbourne with a calf injury.

The St Kilda midfielder was substituted against the Western Bulldogs and is set to miss three weeks.

“We’ve got to be very cautious with Lenny coming back. We will weigh that up but he won’t be available this week,” St Kilda coach Scott Watters said on Thursday.

David Armitage could be a return for the Saints after being a late withdrawal in Round 9.

“Armo needs to get through training but we will be pretty optimistic where he sits,” Watters added.

When quizzed about North’s recent run of close losses, Watters shrugged it off, saying that his team would be ready for any situation that eventuates.

The Saints have been introducing youngsters into their setup, fielding relatively inexperienced sides so far in 2013.

“They’re (North) probably a bit more mature through some areas of their side compared to us.

“They’re a good side. You lose four games by four points or less, it shows you’re a pretty good side.

“We respect them as a club, respect the way they play and we’re expecting a fierce battle.”