MCC chief executive Stephen Gough says a turf replacement program will have the MCG surface in better shape come AFL finals time, after it was criticised by Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson.

Clarkson suggested the slipperiness of the surface might not have helped his players' kicking skills, after the Hawks suffered an upset loss to Richmond.

"The MCG surface might need to get better too, because it's the worst I've ever seen it," Clarkson said.

"We're leading into round 19 or 20 and there's been enormous talk about the Telstra Dome surface three or four years ago.

"Telstra Dome is miles better than the MCG at the present time and I don't know when they're going to resurface it prior to finals, but I reckon it needs addressing."

Gough said the ground was naturally more soft and wet late in winter, but would be better for the finals.

"You'll see a slightly different MCG when we start the September action," Gough said.

"We usually have a look at what's needed coming into the finals and then (replace turf) in that week leading up, so from the last game before the first week of the finals we'll re-turf some sections."

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