Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury looks to be settling into a new role in defence under rookie coach Craig McRae, as the Magpies look to best define their squad ahead of the new season.
Pendlebury has been a constant within Collingwood's midfield ensemble since first stepping foot into the Holden Centre, currently placed as the sixth on the ganme's all-time disposal leaderboard.
Now entering his 17th season in black and white, Pendlebury is reportedly looking to cut his teeth at half-back in what would be a revolutionary new role for the 334-gamer.
As reported by 7 News, Pendlebury is set to hold down a role among the defensive third as McRae fine-tunes his planning for 2022.
Josh Dunkley on why he wants to stay a Dog 🐶
Plus - a new role for Scott Pendlebury https://t.co/RaD1btbUrJ
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) January 26, 2022
The Magpies currently boast an exciting rearguard for the year ahead, led by All-Australian defender Darcy Moore.
The dash and dazzle of Brayden Maynard, Isaac Quaynor and Jeremy Howe add plenty of prowess to McRae's defensive stocks, while incumbent duo Jordan Roughead and John Noble will continue to be serviceable down back.
Given the losses of Chris Mayne and Levi Greenwood through retirement, Pendlebury now looks set to take on a senior role in defence for Collingwood.
The club's depth has taken a hit in recent weeks, with Irish backman Marke Keane opting to remain home and not see out the final year of his contract with the club.
The Magpies were able to swoop on 2021 Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal winner Charlie Dean in last year's Rookie Draft, with the former Williamstown defender tipped to not look out of place at the top level.
Pendlebury's move down back may also see part-time onballer Jack Crisp gain greater exposure in the engine room, while the next wave of emerging prospects also look to make their case in midfield.
Top draftee and father-son selection Nick Daicos is sure to be a feature for Collingwood in his maiden campaign at the club, while his older brother, Josh, will be looking to increase his workload in the centre of the ground.
Pendlebury has been confirmed as Collingwood captain for a ninth-straight season and will be eyeing the 350-game milestone in 2022, being the first Magpies player to do so.
