ALAN Didak staked his claim for a place in Collingwood's finals side after a lively return to AFL football on Friday night. 

The 30-year-old, who had not played for the Magpies since round 11, was subbed into the clash with West Coast at the start of the third quarter. 

Replacing Luke Ball (calf tightness), Didak gathered 15 disposals in less than a half and gave zip to the Pies midfield set-up as they cruised to a 62-point victory. 

Coach Nathan Buckley admitted Didak had put pressure on Collingwood's match committee only two weeks out from the finals. 

"He put his hand up tonight," Buckley said.

"He asked questions of the match committee, and now it's over to us to go and in nine days’ time pick the best side that we think's going to beat North Melbourne (next week), and we go on and on and on. 

"’Dids’ offensively was excellent for us. He ran into gaps, did exactly what you want a sub to do, and he added energy. 

"He added some real bite to our midfield run. It was a good performance as the sub."

Each of Didak's possessions was met with a roar from the Collingwood faithful, with the highlight coming in the last quarter as Didak streamed in to kick the Magpies' only goal of the term. 

After receiving a handball from Dane Swan in the forward pocket, Didak edged closer before booting it through. The goal was celebrated by all of his teammates, who ran to the 2010 premiership star.  

"The players have a real affinity for ‘Dids’, he's given so much to this football club for a long period of time," Buckley said. 

"I'm not the sentimental type – ‘Dids’ earned his opportunity tonight, and there were a few injuries that gave him that opportunity as well as his form through the VFL."

One of those teammates was Ben Kennedy, and although fresh to the club – Kennedy was drafted only last year – the 19-year-old understands Didak's importance. 

They have played together at VFL level throughout the season, and Kennedy, who shares some traits with Didak as a smart, crafty left-footer, has enjoyed his influence. 

"He's great to play with, he always picks out the best option and you know that if you work hard for him, he'll kick it to you," Kennedy said. 

"He's a great role model, too. He's always helping me out with my game and it's great to have him in the team. We're a better team with him, I think."