THE DOOR remains open for out-of-favour Collingwood forward Travis Cloke to redeem himself at the Pies this season and beyond, coach Nathan Buckley says.

The 29-year-old returned to the VFL squad on Saturday after being axed for the second time this season, ending the 40-point win over Casey with 13 touches, eight tackles and two goals in wet conditions.

Buckley said Cloke had taken a step in the right direction at the weekend and hoped that trend would continue.

Cloke stakes his claim for recall after strong VFL performance

"His effort on Saturday was actually the best effort we've got from him all year," Buckley told Fox Footy on Monday night, following his side's 46-point loss to Melbourne at the MCG.

"If he continues that, we know that he can redeem himself with us in 2016 and then beyond, and that's what we're endeavouring to do."

Cloke was first omitted from the Magpies' squad for the Anzac Day blockbuster against Essendon in round five, and played four games in the VFL.

He earned a senior call-up last week against Port Adelaide to fill the deficiency in attack left by fellow goalkickers Darcy Moore (collarbone) and Alex Fasolo (scapula), who were injured against the Western Bulldogs in round 10.