Collingwood coach Craig McRae has confirmed speculation about injured star Taylor Adams’ potential return, suggesting that the player may make a comeback should Magpies qualify for the Australian Football League (AFL) grand final. This news comes following discussions about a straight swap with footballer Nick Daicos, who McRae suggested might play multiple roles, including possibly at half-forward.
Daicos recently showcased his impressive training form, indicating an imminent return to the field. Yet, McRae cautions football enthusiasts to temper their expectations, drawing attention to the time Daicos took off from the sport due to a knee injury he sustained during the 21st round.
Addressing concerns about captain Darcy Moore’s fitness, McRae confirmed that the player is in good shape, following successful training at Olympic Park. Adams, who has been nursing a hamstring strain, is also noticeably putting in the effort with light drills.
McRae anticipates a conceivable play by Adams if they achieve victory against GWS at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Acknowledging the uncertainty of the situation, he expresses optimism about Adams’ recovery progress, describing it as nothing more than a minor hamstring strain. However, he also admits that it is a race against time.
Discussing Daicos, the coach shared plans to place him where his skills will be most needed, depending on the progress of the match. He praised Daicos’ dedication to training and readiness to leap back into the sporting arena. The star player’s return, however, will need to be strategically managed, given the amount of game time he lost due to his injury.
McRae downplayed Moore’s wrist injury, noting that the defender had been training without the cast he wore the previous week. Despite the looming threat from Giants’ half-forward duo Toby Bedford and Brent Daniels, McRae stated that he did not foresee any changes to the Magpies’ defensive lineup. He did not rule out the possibility of involving John Noble, but expressed satisfaction with the current balance in the backline.
Jack Ginnivan, who had replaced a player during the qualifying final win against Melbourne, garnered praise from McRae. The coach, however, mentioned the need to contemplate on whether “insurance” was required in other positions. McRae appreciated Ginnivan’s performance and intends to see how the player’s role evolves.
