A rib injury has forced Collingwood to sub out veteran midfielder Scott Pendlebury midway through Sunday's clash with Hawthorn.
The former Magpies skipper suffered a knock to his back in a contest with Hawk Josh Weddle during the second term of the game at Adelaide Oval, with the onballer deciding to remain on the field shortly after the hit.
Pendlebury eventually made his way from the ground before gaining further treatment from medical staff, who eventually escorted the injured Magpie down to the club's rooms with minutes left before the main break.
Before returning to the field for the second half, Collingwood confirmed Pendlebury had been subbed out of the game, with senior wingman Steele Sidebottom brought into the match as the tactical sub.
A significant knock to the ribs and a potential fracture could force Pendebury to the sidelines for multiple weeks.
"I'm not sure how serious it is. He sort of came into the game a bit sore and I think got a knock right on where it was sore," coach Craig McRae said post-game.
"I don't know the degree of the injury at this stage, we've got a big break, 13 days before our next game, so we'll wait and see what that looks like."
The Magpies fortunately are scheduled for a bye next week, meaning the 36-year-old may not miss any game time.
Scott Pendlebury has been subbed out of #AFLPiesHawks following this contest.
He's replaced by Steele Sidebottom. pic.twitter.com/WyoTDXVg3c
— AFL (@AFL) April 7, 2024
The Magpies face Port Adelaide in Round 6 following their break.
Pendlebury had recorded six touches and a goal before being replaced by Sidebottom, who returns to the field after being managed in Round 3.
