Collingwood Senior Coach Craig McRae has announced the Magpies’ lineup for Saturday’s Round 19 match against Hawthorn. Forward Dan McStay is set to make his return to AFL action after a 302-day absence due to an ACL injury sustained in the pre-season.
Jeremy Howe will also be back in action following a period out with a neural issue, while Lachlan Sullivan earns a call-up to the side.
Out of the lineup due to various reasons are Lachie Schultz (concussion), Harvey Harrison (rested), and Billy Frampton (not selected).
The emergencies will be Frampton, Finlay Macrae, and Jack Bytel, with the tactical substitute to be decided from the extended bench one hour before the game.
McStay recently played 40 minutes for Collingwood’s VFL team against Geelong, scoring one goal, taking four marks, and collecting seven disposals.
Saturday’s game marks McStay’s return to AFL action since last year’s Preliminary Final win over GWS GIANTS, where he suffered a PCL injury that sidelined him for the 2023 Grand Final.
McStay joined Collingwood from Brisbane in 2022 after 161 appearances for the Lions from 2014 to 2022, following his selection at Pick 25 in the 2013 National Draft.
In his debut season with Collingwood, the 196cm forward scored 20 goals, including two majors before his injury in the Preliminary Final against GWS GIANTS.
Senior Coach Craig McRae praised McStay’s dedication and hard work ahead of his return.
Howe returns after missing the last game due to hamstring discomfort caused by a neural issue in his back.
Sullivan will play his first AFL game since Round 16, following standout performances in the VFL, including 31 disposals against Frankston and two goals against Geelong.
Collingwood, currently 12th in the standings, faces Hawthorn, who are 13th. Their last encounter in Round Five saw Collingwood edge out a thrilling five-point victory at the Adelaide Oval.
Midfielder Jordan De Goey led the disposals with 31, while Tom Mitchell impressed against his former team with 10 tackles.
The match is scheduled for Saturday, July 20, at the MCG, starting at 3:45 pm (AEST).
IN: McStay, Howe, Sullivan
OUT: Schultz (concussion), Harrison (rested), Frampton (not selected)
GET MORE NEWS HERE