JORDAN De Goey will return to add further firepower to high-flying Collingwood in its clash with Port Adelaide as Craig McRae weighs up a role for Brodie Grundy.
Ruck star Grundy has recovered from a long-term knee injury and was cleared to play last week but was left out to give him more time to build his fitness base.
The Magpies are leaning towards easing Grundy back through their VFL team, which had a bye last week and takes on Southport this weekend.
But ruck-forward Mason Cox missed training on Wednesday with "virus symptoms" and is no certainty to play against the Power at the MCG on Saturday, throwing a spanner in the works.
Grundy, who has not played since round six, may be required to come straight back in at the top level.
"We're hoping (Grundy will play VFL)," Pies coach McRae said.
"He's still got to train Friday and he got through again today (Wednesday).
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"He's better prepared now to play AFL footy, but whether that's minutes in the VFL this week, time will tell.
"We're pleased that he's progressing."
Tough defender Brayden Maynard faces a test on his injured shoulder after being substituted out of last week's thrilling win over Essendon and was on light duties at training on Wednesday.
De Goey completed the full session in a positive sign after missing the past three games with a quadriceps injury.
The explosive 26-year-old has played just once since round 13 – having missed a game while on personal leave amid the fallout from his ill-fated mid-season break in Bali – but shapes as a potential X-factor in Collingwood's premiership push.
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"Jordy trained really well, so we're really comfortable with where Jordy's at," McRae said.
"He was probably touch and go to play last week and he's put some time in.
"He's had a mini pre-season, if you like, in three weeks, which at this time of year can be a real benefit.
"Hopefully that translates into form for him."
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Collingwood has surged into the top four and flag contention and is aiming for a 10th consecutive victory when it takes on Port Adelaide.
It took time this week to re-live the latest win over Essendon, which was sealed by Jamie Elliott's ice-cool set shot after the siren – a highlight that will live long in the memory of Magpies fans.
"We watched the last couple of minutes as a group and reflected on it and celebrated it," McRae said.
"We lived in the moment for what it was; it was a very special moment."