Jordan De Goey is set to make his return for Collingwood this week against Kuwarna, having recovered from a groin issue that sidelined him for the past two weeks. However, Brownlow Medallist Tom Mitchell will remain absent for the upcoming match. Despite initially participating in the main training session, Mitchell departed early due to plantar fasciitis, leading to his continued absence for a third consecutive game.
“Jordy had a good training session and looks ready to go,” McRae informed reporters at the AIA Centre. “Unfortunately, Tom won’t be playing due to his ongoing foot issue.”
Collingwood has faced a spate of injuries over the past month, with Jeremy Howe (groin) and Jack Bytel (concussion) both sidelined after the victory over the Eagles. Jamie Elliott (vascular) is not expected back until June, while Beau McCreery (concussion) and Brody Mihocek (hamstring) are still a week away from returning.
Despite an ankle injury suffered against the Eagles, Harvey Harrison trained on Thursday and is likely to be available for selection, along with Lachie Schultz, who has served his one-game suspension.
McRae highlighted the need for the Magpies to focus on Kuwarna’s key players, particularly Izak Rankine and Jordan Dawson. Rankine, considered the top general forward in the AFL, and Dawson, an elite midfielder and All-Australian, pose significant threats.
“It’s a challenge to contain him,” McRae remarked about Rankine, likening him to Nick Daicos in terms of game impact. “He’s powerful and an elite finisher. We need to strategize against him. Dawson is another exceptional player, versatile and influential wherever he plays.”
In heartwarming news, 80-year-old Collingwood supporter Jessie Hatch, who was injured in an incident involving an e-scooter after the round eight win over Carlton, was welcomed to the club on Thursday after recovering from a spinal injury. McRae emphasized the importance of supporting not only those within the club but also the broader supporter base.
“It’s about more than just what happens on the field,” McRae emphasized. “We aim to support all aspects of our community, including our loyal fans. Our culture is about bringing everyone along for the journey, and this is just a small part of that.”
