Rocca, who will play at centre half-forward in the Anzac Day clash against the Bombers, has kicked just two goals from 10 kicks. Added to this, the 30-year-old has failed to gather 10 or more possessions in 14 of his past 16 matches.
However, former Coleman medalist Taylor, who played 97 games for the Pies, is quoted in the Herald Sun as saying the forward is still crucial to the side.
“The simple fact of the matter is that Collingwood without Rocca aren’t as good. If you take Rocca out of that team for Anzac Day, you would say it’s a weakened side,” he said.
“I am not privy to selection matters but from the outside as a commentator and part-time helper down there, I would have thought his position is reasonably safe.”
Collingwood’s former premiership captain Tony Shaw has also got in on the debate. According to the Herald Sun, he believes that the Pies should use their under-the-microscope forward more effectively.
“He needs to be released quicker. When he isn’t touching it for 15-20 minutes, throw him into the ruck, then put him on the bench, then bring him back again when you have released the pressure on him,” he said.
Shaw admitted that consistency is still a problem for the spearhead.
“The thing about Anthony is that there is a big difference between his good and bad. He has to reduce that gap. I don’t think they would drop him, but you have to keep performing.”
