North Melbourne could be without first-string ruckman Tristan Xerri for the remainder of the 2022 season due to required surgery on a shoulder issue.
Xerri has emerged as David Noble's preferred big man in the middle this year as the Roos turn to the future, placing veteran Todd Goldstein to support his younger partner in the club's ruck rotations.
The 23-year-old has played 12 matches this season, missing rounds 7-9 with a foot injury before returning at the midway mark of the Roos' campaign.
Xerri is now set to miss at least another week and potentially the remaining rounds as he prepares to go under the knife on a niggling shoulder issue, AFL.com.au's Callum Twomey has revealed.
The Caroline Springs native won't be named for North Melbourne's bout against Collingwood on Saturday, with Goldstein likely to lead the young Roos squad as they continue their hunt for a second win this year.
Should his season be over, Xerri will join young duo Will Phillips (illness) and Miller Bergman (shoulder) in being ruled out of a return this year.
Xerri's absence may also open an opportunity for recruit Callum Coleman-Jones to prove his worth at AFL level, with the ex-Tiger having been placed on the outer of Noble's side for a majority of this year.
Coleman-Jones recorded 24 disposals, 34 hit-outs, eight clearances, five marks and five tackles in his most recent VFL outing for the Roos, a 47-point loss to Werribee.
The 23-year-old has played just four games for North Melbourne's AFL side this season after joining from Punt Road in a high-priced trade.
Midfielder Tarryn Thomas (personal reasons), skipper Jack Ziebell (face), utility Bailey Scott (hip), recent debutant Jackson Archer (hip) and rookie Josh Goater could also be included for Noble's side to face the Magpies.
Top pick Jason Horne-Francis will return from suspension through the VFL, while Aaron Hall (hamsttring) and Kayne Turner (concussion) will be omitted from the team that lost to Geelong by 112 points in Round 16.
North Melbourne will face Collingwood at the MCG at 1:45pm (AEST) on Saturday afternoon.