Collingwood's Tom Mitchell is said to be dealing with an ankle complaint, with the Magpies deciding to rest the Brownlow Medal winner for Friday night's clash against Sydney.
Micthell was listed as 'managed' among the reigning premiers' outs for their Round 1 meeting at the MCG, with defender John Noble omitted from the side that fell to GWS in Opening Round.
Eyebrows were raised when Mitchell was not included in Craig McRae's team and instead afforded rest after one game into the new season, with the Magpies since revealing to 7 News that the veteran midfielder is dealing with an ankle issue.
Mitchell recorded nine disposals and booted a goal in less than half a game against the Giants, having been subbed out of the match for Noble.
The Magpies named young onballer Finlay Macrae as an inclusion in Mitchell's place, with the former first-round pick selected as the tactical sub.
Veteran defender Jeremy Howe was Collingwood's second inclusion, with the high-flying Magpie returning from a calf injury that kept him sidelined for last Saturday's season opener.
Mitchell could be back in the frame for Collingwood's Round 2 clash against St Kilda, while the black and white club are scheduled to face Brisbane and Hawthorn in the weeks after in the lead-up to their Round 5 bye.
McRae's side are looking to bounce back on Friday night after starting their flag defence with the loss, taking on Sydney who started their own campaign with a win over Melbourne in Opening Round.
You can follow Collingwood vs Sydney via Zero Hanger's live match centre below.Â
