Suspended Collingwood youngster Jaidyn Stephenson will make an earlier than anticipated return to football on Saturday – in the VFL. 

The 20-year-old was banned ahead of round 14 for 22 games, 12 of which were suspended, for placing bets on Collingwood games.

However, the AFL has ruled that the effective 10-game ban will expire after the Magpies face Essendon in their final round clash at the MCG on Friday night, making Stephenson eligible to play in the VFL against Box Hill Hawks at Box Hill City Oval the next day.

Collingwood's VFL team cannot qualify for finals, meaning Saturday's game is the final opportunity for Stephenson to play a competitive game ahead of the Magpies' first final.

Pies coach Nathan Buckley, in announcing Stephenson's return at state-league level, described the development as "a small win" and lauded the brilliant forward's commitment to his preparation during his exile.

"His attitude and workrate's been amazing. We couldn't have asked any more of him. The way he's applied himself into his training block ... We had a small win this week," Buckley told reporters. 

"(It's) fortuitous that we had a Friday night game so Jaidyn plays in the VFL on Saturday, which gives him a run around. 

"That will be another progression for him, which is something that works in our favour and in his, and probably gives him another step up in a match situation before having to come back a couple of weeks later."

The AFL confirmed Stephenson's ban would end on Friday night after Collingwood's match against Essendon. 

The reigning NAB AFL Rising Star award winner's absence has hurt the Magpies. Before his suspension, Stephenson hadn't missed a game, making 38 consecutive appearances, kicking 59 goals and having 23 goal assists, creating havoc as a speedy, deep option.

At Collingwood, only matchwinner Jordan De Goey was more productive in that period.

The second-year sensation is understandably excited about the prospect of playing again, his coach said.  

"If you've missed as much footy as he has, he's looking forward to be able to get involved in the cut and thrust as soon as possible. He's rapt that the all-clear came through," Buckley said.