Collingwood defender Jeremy Howe is tipped to overcome an abductor injury ahead of his side's Round 1 clash with St Kilda next month.
The high-flying Magpie suffered a hip complaint in Friday's intra-club, not taking any further part in the session after requiring medical treatment in the second quarter.
The 31-year-old is now set to miss up to a fortnight with an abductor issue, placing him on the sidelines for Collingwood's trip to Morwell to face Hawthorn this weekend.
The ailment could also see Howe remain out of his side's squad for next week's AAMI Community Series fixture with the Giants the following week.
1-2 week abductor issue for Howie.
Good to see him building back today as he aims to be right for round 1. pic.twitter.com/dDpHJRmpUv
— Collingwood FC (@CollingwoodFC) February 21, 2022
With 25 days until Collingwood's season opener against the Saints at Marvel Stadium, Howe's next full match session will likely take place in the home and away season.
Howe was among a trio of Magpies players to hold their place in the club's leadership group for 2022, with Darcy Moore and Taylor Adams also named as vice-captains.
His setback adds further strains to Craig McRae's defensive planning this pre-season, with tall Jordan Roughead set to miss the opening rounds of the season.
Rookie defender Charlie Dean frames as a likely chance to make his debut under McRae, while skipper Scott Pendlebury is set for a move from midfield to half-back.
Star duo Jordan De Goey (ribs) and Brodie Grundy (illness) were absent from Friday's match simulation, however are likely to feature against the Hawks this week.
