Karmichael Hunt's bid to resurrect his AFL career has suffered a minor setback with the strong-bodied midfielder going down mid-way through the second quarter against the Northern Territory Thunder at Metricon Stadium.

Hunt required stitches to his head following a head high hit by a Thunder opposition player.

He was assessed by club medical staff and sent home at the half-time break.

Senior coach Guy McKenna insisted yesterday a fully fit and in-form Hunt was still in the club's best 22.

"He is very close and he is just about there," McKenna said on Friday.

"He is probably about 95, 96 (per cent) and we probably always thought he would need another run and this would be the run. If we make him a sub that doesn't help him because it's all about fitness for him."

Hunt has been gaining consistent form in the NEAFL and ran out his first full game last weekend, suggesting a senior recall could be on the horizon.

goldcoastfc.com.au will update members and fans when further details become available.