AFL Injury News: Collingwood Magpies bolstered by return of key trio ahead of Saturday’s Gold Coast clash
The Collingwood Magpies will have a huge boost ahead of their Round 16 clash with the Gold Coast Suns on Saturday, June 26. Scott Pendlebury, Brody Mihocek, and Oleg Markov are all back in action this week.
In a recent injury update, Collingwood's Head of High Performance, Jarrod Wade, confirmed the availability of the trio for Saturday's clash at People First Stadium.
Veteran midfielder, Scott Pendlebury has recovered from a partial tendon tear in his left bicep. The 36-year-old has completed all required rehab and dynamic work in the gym and will participate in full training this week. Pendlebury is expected to make the match-day squad against the Suns.
Brody Mihoeck will also be available for selection this week after overcoming a hamstring strain that had kept him sidelined for the past seven weeks. The Magpies forward engaged in high-level training last week, completing his comeback.
Craig MacRae's side will also welcome back Oleg Markov, who picked up a back spasm just before the Collingwood Magpies' Round 14 clash with the North Melbourne Kangaroos. The 28-year-old enjoyed pain-free training during the Pies' bye week, which confirmed his recovery and availability for Round 16.
Furthermore, midseason recruit Ned Long has also returned to full training after undergoing a rehabilitation program for a calf injury and is expected to be available for selection.
Collingwood Magpies still battling long injury list
The Collingwood Magpies are still undermanned, with as many as 10 players on the club's injury list. Star midfielder Jordan De Goey is still recovering from an acute abdominal tendon tear. Goey has completed high-level training but needs further assessments such as contact training and tackling to fully make his comeback.
Mason Cox is out of AFL concussion protocols but continues to work on his injured knee. The ruckman is not expected to be back for another three to five weeks. Dan McStay is still out for a couple of weeks with an ACL injury, while Tom Mitchell is gradually recovering after undergoing foot surgery.
Other players on the Magpies' injury list include Wil Parker (knee), Oscar Steene (toe), Jamie Elliot (vascular), Joe Richards (foot), and Josh Carmichael (concussion).