Daniel Wells is building fitness on the field and “tracking really well” as pre-season training begins to draw to a conclusion.
Collingwood’s General Manager of Football Geoff Walsh passed the verdict on Wells after watching him compete in match simulation exercises during Wednesday’s training session at the Holden Centre.
The former North Melbourne midfielder joined teammates for a large portion of drills, including the first half of an intense full-ground hit-out.
“Daniel played some time in both of our match-like hit outs this week and, right now, he is on track to participate in some part of our pre-season campaign,” Walsh said.
“He has attacked his work and is building his preparation up nicely.”
A two-time best and fairest winner at the Kangaroos, Wells joined Collingwood as an unrestricted free agent in the October player movement period.
The 31-year-old played 19 games in 2016, returning strongly from foot injuries which hampered his previous season.
Now in Black and White, Wells has made a positive impact upon those at the Holden Centre.
“Daniel is tracking along really well, as planned,” Walsh said.
“Bill Davoren and his high performance team have managed him astutely, building his stamina through the pre-Christmas period without taking any undue risks.”
Collingwood will play a twilight intra-club game at the Holden Centre on Wednesday 8 February before the JLT Community Series kicks off with a clash with Essendon eight days later.
Daniel Wells’ off-season timeline
11 October, 2016 – Wells joins Collingwood as an unrestricted free agent.
28 November, 2016 – The former Roo trains in the Black and White for the first time.
19 December, 2016 – Collingwood’s high performance staff keep a close eye on Wells as he completes run-throughs at the Holden Centre.
11 January, 2016 – The footy’s come out as Wells is introduced into training with the main group.
