Melbourne Victroy defender Roddy Vargas believes Matthew Kemp is ready to fill the gaping hole in defence left by Kevin Muscat.

The Victory skipper is expected to be sidelined for at least a month with a hamstring injury but Vargas is confident ex-Adelaide United man Kemp can do the job.

"Matty played a few games in pre-season so he's not stepping in for the first time," Vargas said.

"He's pretty reliable and can adjust to various positions and has been around for a long time and has a good head on his shoulders. I think he'll do a good job."

Vargas said that the loss of a player like Muscat wasn't ideal but definitely not a negative for the squad.

"It's a massive loss, no two ways about it," Vargas added.

"It's a big loss and even training can be different without him around.

"But it gives other boys a chance to step up and show their qualities and prove themselves. It's a big challenge for us and one we're welcoming."