Jordan De Goey has been “straightened out” to the point of flying past captain Scott Pendlebury in the gym, according to teammate Jeremy Howe.

De Goey’s form has been a revelation so far in 2018. The 21-year-old leads Collingwood’s goal kicking and is averaging an impressive 17 disposals per game through six appearances.

It’s a stark contrast to a pre-season plagued by controversy and injury concerns.

“We sat Jordy down on multiple occasions and tried to straighten a few things out,” vice-captain Howe told Triple M on Sunday.

“He’s really fixed his off-field stuff and his preparation has been really good.

“He’s going to continue to build, and his footy is obviously in a really good spot at the moment.”


Blessed with the natural talent which led to being the 5th overall pick in the 2014 National Draft, De Goey has now played 56 games as a Magpie.

However, drastic improvement in his work-rate and dedication has been evident recently after a number of tough conversations with the leadership group, and tutelage from Pendlebury in the weights room.

“He’s taken Jordy under his wing really and just shown him what it’s like to be an elite AFL player,” Howe explained.

“I think Pendles is trying to get away from him now, because he embarrasses him in the gym.”

“He’s definitely on the right path, but he’s got to continue to keep working hard.”