Collingwood is expected to make multiple late changes to its squad for Friday's matchup with Brisbane, with defender John Noble reportedly in doubt to face the Lions.
The Magpies have already been forced into two big changes for the blockbuster Round 23 contest, with captain Darcy Moore (hamstring) and midfielder Jordan De Goey (glute) both unable to play.
Their injuries have led Collingwood to hand first-year backman Jakob Ryan his AFL debut this week, with the South Australian teenager joining veteran wingman Steele Sidebottom in coming into Craig McRae's plans to help tame the Lions.
Noble was seen as a possible chance to join Moore and De Goey in making way at selection due to injury, with the club revealing earlier in the week the defensive flanker was dealing with an ankle injury sustained in last week's win over Geelong.
McRae confirmed midweek that Noble was ready for this Friday's encounter with fellow flag contenders Brisbane, however a cloud over his selection has returned.
According toย 7 News Melbourne'sย Tom Browne on Friday, Noble could be among multiple late changes that Collingwood swing ahead of their enticing encounter with Brisbane.
The Magpies have Reef McInnes, Mason Cox, Josh Carmichael and uncapped utility Ed Allan on standby as emergencies for the game.
Expecting a few late changes for Collingwood tonight including Noble out, weโll know for certain 645 inside Marvel on @7NewsMelbourne
— Tom Browne (@TomBrowne7) August 18, 2023
The Magpies and Lions go into the contest evenly backed to take the four points, while a win for Collingwood would see them secure the minor premiership.
The Lions, who sit in second, are a live threat to the Magpies' hopes of finishing on top of the ladder, however do need two wins from their final pair of games while also requiring Collingwood to lose this week and next.
Friday's game at Marvel Stadium will commence at 7:50 pm (AEST), with final teams to be declared one hour before the opening bounce.
