AFL Practice Match - Geelong v Collingwood
GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 26: Oliver Henry of the Magpies marks the ball during the AFL Practice Match between the Geelong Cats and the Collingwood Magpies at GMHBA Stadium on February 26, 2021 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Geelong recruit and former Collingwood forward Oliver Henry has detailed the reason he departed the Magpies in favour of a move back home.

Henry was part of a three-club deal that landed in the final minutes of last month's trade period deadline, with Hawthorn midfielder heading to Collingwood while young Cat Cooper Stephens was sent to Waverley as Henry and draft selections also changed hands.

The move for Henry sees him return to his local roots and link up with his older brother and premiership backman Jack in the blue and white hoops.

The 20-year-old revealed to 9 News that residing closer to home with the Cats was a move he had "always wanted to have", happy to see his desired switch to the Cattery get the green light this off-season.

"It was a nervous wait the last 10 minutes (of the trade period)," Henry said.

"I had faith in my management and the club to get the deal done.

"I just think this is a setup that I've always wanted to have. I'm just lucky enough and fortunate enough to be part of the group."

Henry's switch to Kardinia Park came with a wave of anger from Collingwood fans, who saw their promising young forward leave after just two seasons in black and white.

Understanding of the sour response he'll likely receive when he first faces his now-former club, Henry said he was grateful for his time with the Magpies.

"Whatever backlash I get, that's okay," Henry said.

"I just want (Collingwood fans) to know that I enjoyed my time with the club and the club was great to me.

"I made the most of it."

Henry played 25 games in his two seasons with the Magpies, booting 28 goals.

He was one of three promising pickups for Geelong this off-season, with Suns Jack Bowes and Giant Tanner Bruhn - a close mate of Henry's - also landing at the Cattery.