STAR forward Jack Gunston expects to re-sign with Hawthorn soon.

Gunston is set to come out of contract at the end of this season, but he told SEN radio on Monday morning that a new deal with the Hawks was close.

"It's gradually just getting there. I don't think it should be too far away," Gunston said.

"I love the club. I have only been there for four years now.

"The club and my manager are working through [the terms of a new contract]. I am comfortable where it's at at the moment."

Gunston shapes as the Hawks' most important re-signing this year.

At 24, Gunston is already a key member of Hawthorn's forward line and will likely become its focal point when Jarryd Roughead, 29, eventually retires.

Gunston was the Hawks' leading goalkicker last year with 57 majors. He also has been a consistent finals performer, most memorably kicking four goals in the 2013 and 2015 Grand Finals.

The former Crow has stepped up in Roughead's injury-enforced absence this year as part of a Hawthorn attack that has covered the two-time All Australian's absence remarkably well.

Roughead will be sidelined for another 8-10 weeks as he recovers from surgery on his posterior cruciate ligament.

Gunston said Roughead's absence had forced him to take on a bigger on-field leadership role.

"'Roughy' is a very vocal and prominent forward. He is definitely a lot older than a lot of us forwards out there," Gunston said.

"In terms of my role on field, it's the leadership type of things, just being able to organise the set-up with the guys around me.

"We have a young group there."

The Hawks have also been without captain Luke Hodge since he broke his arm against Geelong in round one.

Gunston said Hodge could return against St Kilda on Saturday in Launceston.

"I am pretty sure he trained strongly last week. I am sure he will be in contention this week," Gunston said.