Collingwood recruit Tom Mitchell is battling a neck injury ahead of his side's trip to Queensland to face the Suns.
Mitchell has been pivotal in Collingwood's high-functioning midfield group this year after being traded from Hawthorn, working in tandem with the likes of new teammates Jordan De Goey and Josh Daicos to help have the Magpies sitting in top spot after 15 rounds.
Collingwood have been forced to deal with a number of injury matters in the lead-up to Saturday's clash with Gold Coast at Carrara, with defender Brayden Maynard nursing a shoulder complaint in the wake of last week's win over Adelaide.
Key forward Dan McStay is looking to make a return from a finger injury that has forced the ex-Lion to the sidelines since Round 5, with a return to come after this week's clash with the Suns.
Collingwood's selection committee will now also be needing to assess Mitchell's fitness ahead of the trip north, with neck soreness limiting the Brownlow Medal winner at training on Wednesday.
Mitchell has avoided a significant setback, but concerns in regard to his playing chances for this week were raised after the midfielder failed to finish his side's midweek session.
The club is confident Mitchell will face the Suns this weekend.
Maynard will be assessed in the coming days prior to Saturday's match after copping a knock to the shoulder, while McStay could make return next week against the Western Bulldogs.
Outside of Maynard, senior coach Craig McRae had no injury concerns arise from Sunday's thrilling win over the Crows, with Collingwood nearing a fully fit list as the home stretch toward September commences.
The Magpies could have veteran midfielder Steele Sidebottom available for selection as early as Round 18 as the Victorian powerhouse looks to retain its place atop the AFL ladder.
Teams for this weekend's action will be confirmed at 6:20pm (AEST) on Thursday evening.
