Collingwood star becomes latest Magpie under injury cloud

Collingwood star Josh Daicos was seen in some discomfort on the training track this weekend, dealing with a suspected lower leg concern.

Daicos and the Magpies returned to training this week following their Christmas break, with Saturday’s session pushing players to their limits with a yo-yo test.

The reigning best and fairest winner did not take part in the running drill, training away from the main squad before requiring medical attention off the field.

Captain Darcy Moore underwent minor wrist surgery prior to the club’s Christmas break but isn’t facing any delays to his 2024 plans, while star duo Brayden Maynard and Jamie Elliott have both required surgery on shoulder issues since Collingwood’s premiership-winning 2023 campaign concluded.

Maynard’s procedure places him out of action until next month, where he could be competing against time to feature in Collingwood’s opening pre-season hitout.

The Magpies are already facing the likelihood of being without key forward Dan McStay for the entire season ahead due to an ACL injury sustained at training last year, with a number of fringe forwards in the mix to replace the ex-Lion.

Collingwood also have a host of train-on players for the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period, with former Essendon-listed tall Josh Eyre and Footscray’s Lachie Sullivan among those turning heads in the hope of landing on an AFL list.

The Magpies will face Richmond and North Melbourne during their pre-season run before they make the trip to GIANTS Stadium to meet with GWS for their Opening Round encounter on Saturday, March 9.