COLLINGWOOD has done a good job focusing on what it can control, despite being under siege externally according to Magpies coach Nathan Buckley. 

With six rounds remaining and a finals berth a long shot, Buckley said the players and club were doing well to perform from week to week. 

He said it was impossible for anyone at the club to communicate the direction beyond this season until the Pies' internal review was completed and decisions were made as a result.

"We're clearly gaining and gathering all the information independently as much as we can to make the right decisions," Buckley said. 

"It's something we can't communicate to the members with clarity before the end of the season and before all that information has come to light." 

Buckley said the team would judge itself on its defensive efforts in the final six rounds as it looks to minimise opposition scores between now and the end of the season. 

He said keeping 'points against' low would be a key focus for the team and coaches with the Magpies having rediscovered the sense of purpose that disappeared a fortnight ago when they lost to Essendon. 

Collingwood is looking to back up its win against Gold Coast with victory over West Coast at Etihad Stadium on Sunday without skipper Scott Pendlebury, who had surgery on his injured finger on Monday night. 

Pendlebury had played 62 consecutive games and 252 of a possible 269 in his career.

Buckleys aid each week was a good chance to learn about people within the club. 

"You find out a little bit about organisations and individuals when the stress comes on," Buckley said.

"We're not sitting on our hands treading water."