AFL Rd 1 - Collingwood v Western Bulldogs
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 19: Brodie Grundy of the Magpies walks off the field after the Magpies lost the round one AFL match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Western Bulldogs at Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 19, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Collingwood are set to be without Brodie Grundy for close to three months after the Magpies ruckman sustained a knee injury in Monday's win over Essendon.

The 28-year-old suffered the setback late into the Magpies' win, telling Fox Footy postgame he was "pretty sore" but "should be fine".

Despite the two-time All-Australian's initial suggestion, Grundy could miss up to 12 weeks with a PCL injury diagnosed for their star ruckman, who also missed multiple weeks last season with a neck issue.

“We are all disappointed for Brodie. While he is a key member of our team and will be missed, out of adversity comes opportunity for other members of the squad to play a role during this time,” Collingwood GM of Football, Graham Wright said, via the club's website.

“We know Brodie will be dedicated to his rehabilitation and will continue to remain involved with the team as he recovers.”

The news compounds the Magpies' woes to come from the Round 6 win, with recruit Nathan Kreuger tipped to miss the rest of the season after requiring shoulder surgery.

Grundy has been a pivotal piece in Collingwood's system and enjoyed a strong outing against the Bombers, recording 16 possessions, 33 hit-outs and a goal in the win.