Collingwood forward Jamie Elliott is facing an extended period on the sidelines due to a “vascular issue,” as the club provides updates on various senior and emerging players currently undergoing treatment.
Elliott, who did not participate in the weekend match against West Coast due to foot soreness initially thought to be linked to a back problem, has now been diagnosed with a minor vascular issue. This setback will see the premiership Magpie sidelined for up to three weeks, necessitating a modified training regimen and additional treatment.
Collingwood’s high-performance boss, Jarrod Wade, expressed disappointment over Elliott’s situation but also offered some reassurance, stating, “In positive news, it is not a significant issue, and it is treatable.” Despite his absence from matches, Elliott will maintain his fitness through tailored training sessions during his recovery period.
In addition to Elliott’s setback, veteran defender Jeremy Howe is set to miss up to three weeks due to a minor groin strain, while recruit Jack Bytel has entered the AFL’s concussion protocols following a head knock in Sunday’s victory.
Despite these setbacks, there is a glimmer of hope for young utility Harvey Harrison, who sustained an ankle injury against the Eagles. While Harrison’s availability for Round 10 remains uncertain due to his ankle inversion, there is a possibility he may still feature in the senior side.
Senior midfielders Jordan De Goey and Tom Mitchell are also facing fitness tests ahead of this week’s game, having missed the previous match due to groin and foot issues, respectively.
Meanwhile, forward Beau McCreery continues his recovery from concussion and is not expected to return this week, with a potential comeback slated for either next week or Round 12. Spearhead Brody Mihocek is targeting a return from a hamstring injury by Round 11.
On the fringe, both Josh Carmichael (concussion) and Aiden Begg (knee) are sidelined, with Begg’s return timeframe uncertain after sustaining damage to his MCL and PCL in the VFL.
