Collingwood could be boosted by the return of star small forward Alan Didak for next weekend's clash with Port Adelaide.

The Magpies will determine how best to return Didak to the fold after knee surgery during the off-season, depending on how he trains this week.

Collingwood football chief Geoff Walsh said the All-Australian and reigning best-and-fairest winner could play either against Port at the MCG on Saturday, or for the Magpies' VFL affiliate Williamstown.

"We'll see how he goes, but he'll certainly be pushing this week," Walsh said.

Collingwood captain Nathan Buckley is not ready to return from a hamstring injury, but vice-captain James Clement, who pulled out before Friday night's win over Richmond with a calf problem, should come straight back into the senior lineup.