RUCKMAN Max Gawn has avoided having his third knee reconstruction, after undergoing surgery on Tuesday.

Gawn, who suffered a knee injury in Melbourne’s final match of the season against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium last Sunday, said on Instagram on Tuesday afternoon that he didn’t tear his anterior cruciate ligament.

“Somehow i have dodged an acl! Only a scare! Surgery went well, 10 weeks and im back training #betterthen12months #finallysomeluckonmyside,” he said.

Gawn has played 26 AFL matches since making his debut in round 11, 2011 against Essendon at the MCG.

He made nine appearances this season, including the final four rounds.

Gawn returned to the side late in the season after some scintillating form in the VFL. Still only 22 years old, he remains an important long-term prospect.