Collingwood are set to hand fringe defender Charlie Dean an Opening Round debut on Saturday against GWS.

Dean, the 2022 Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal winner with Williamstown, has caught the eye over the pre-season following two injury-riddled years with the Magpies.

Collingwood recruited Dean via the Rookie Draft following his breakout season with the Seagulls, with the mature-aged recruit having an instant impact in his first summer in black and white.

Back injuries have since hampered his time at Olympic Park, with a long recovery process getting him in shape for the 2024 season.

Dean's patience is now set to pay off, with the key defender notified of his first game at training on Thursday.

Swarmed by teammates following the Magpies' main session, Dean is primed to fill the void left by injured veteran Jeremy Howe for his side's season opener.

Howe is expected to overcome a niggling calf issue in time for Collingwood's Round 1 clash with Sydney.

Collingwood unveiled just two debutants during their premiership season last year, with utility Harvey Harrison and defender Jakob Ryan both getting a look at senior action.

The Magpies will confirm their squad for the weekend on Thursday evening ahead of Saturday's clash with GWS at GIANTS Stadium.