Having made an irresistible case for a return with a series of strong performances at VFL level, Didak is one of four inclusions for the clash, joining midfielder Josh Thomas, defender Heath Shaw and debutant Kyle Martin, who has been recognised for his VFL form with an elevation to the senior list.
While Martin firmly catapulted into selection consideration following his six-goal effort against Essendon in the VFL last week, the 22-year old has undoubtedly affirmed himself as one of the most consistent performers in Dale Tapping’s side and currently sits second on the VFL goal kicking table with 21.
Read collingwoodfc.com.au's preview of Friday night's match.
Averaging 33 disposals and nine tackles in his last three outings for the VFL Magpies, Martin’s defensive intensity and ability to secure the hard ball has seen him lauded as an AFL player-in-waiting, a prophecy he will be able to realise in the Lions’ den.
Director of Football Geoff Walsh described Martin’s elevation to the senior list as due reward for his influential displays in the VFL.
“Kyle’s been elevated on the back of some consistent and really strong performances in the VFL,” Walsh said.
“Arguably he has been our most consistent player this season. His form in the midfield has been outstanding, he’s also been able to kick goals each week as evidenced by him sitting second on the VFL goal kicking table.
“To date, he’s played a pretty impressive season. Alex Fasolo’s injury has opened up an opportunity for Kyle to step up as a long term injury replacement. It’s the old story; someone else’s misfortune creates opportunities for others. In Kyle’s case, it’s well deserved.”
Shaw meanwhile returns after overcoming a lower back complaint which saw him sidelined for a fortnight, while Thomas has earned an immediate recall after once again demonstrating his class in the VFL.
The incoming quartet replaces Martin Clarke, Jarrod Witts, Sam Dwyer and Jordan Russell, with the latter two players missing out through injury.
“Jordy’s ankle hasn’t come up from last week. He tried to come back on against the Swans, but that wasn’t fruitful in itself, while Sammy has a bit of groin soreness,” Walsh said.
“He has struggled with it which is contrary to his form, which has been strong, but has suffered a few issues with it during the week, so we just decided to give him a spell in the hope he overcomes it.”
Brisbane v Collingwood
Round 10
Friday May 31
Gabba, 7.50pm
Collingwood
B: Nathan Brown, Ben Reid, Harry O’Brien
HB: Heath Shaw, Nick Maxwell, Marley Williams
C: Steele Sidebottom, Dane Swan, Luke Ball
HF: Jamie Elliott, Quinten Lynch, Brent Macaffer
F: Ben Kennedy, Travis Cloke, Alan Didak
Foll: Darren Jolly, Scott Pendlebury, Jarryd Blair
Int: Andrew Krakouer, Josh Thomas, Kyle Martin, Paul Seedsman
Emg: Marty Clarke, Jarrod Witts, Ben Sinclair
IN: Didak, Martin, Shaw, J.Thomas
OUT: Dwyer (groin), Russell (ankle), Clarke, Witts (omitted)
NEW: Kyle Martin (22, Noble Park/Frankston)
