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Pie Greenwood could return for AFL clash

3 minute read

While Richmond must find a replacement for injured star Alex Rance, Collingwood's round-one loss might also prompt a change or two.

Levi Greenwood
Levi Greenwood Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Media/Getty Images

Collingwood run-with midfielder Levi Greenwood could be recalled for an assignment on Richmond star Dustin Martin in Thursday's AFL blockbuster.

Greenwood was left out of the Magpies' round-one loss to Geelong and there could be selection repercussions, given coach Nathan Buckley has made it clear he wants more from their star-studded midfield.

Greenwood is the most obvious inclusion if Collingwood decided to make a midfield change, while Brayden Sier is also pressing his claims for a senior recall.

While Buckley wants more grunt from the midfielders he backed star ruckman Brodie Grundy, who was below his best in the Cats loss.

"It was just one game of footy and he'll respond," Buckley said.

Richmond must replace star defender Alex Rance, who had a knee reconstruction on Wednesday and will miss the rest of the season.

Second-year player Ryan Garthwaite is the obvious inclusion for Rance, with coach Damien Hardwick saying the whole team must lift to cope without one of their most important players.

Tigers utility Brandon Ellis also pressed his claims for a senior return with 40 possessions last weekend in a VFL practice game.

Meanwhile, West Coast premiership forward Willie Rioli remains sidelined with a foot injury and it is unclear when he will return.

After 24 games in his debut season, Rioli missed the Eagles' season-opening loss to Brisbane.

West Coast football boss Craig Vozzo said they are awaiting the results of a scan before making the call on when Rioli might return.

Eagles spearhead Josh Kennedy is set to return for his 200th game when they unfurl the premiership flag before Saturday night's home clash against GWS.

The Giants, fresh from their 72-point belting of Essendon, could regain star onballer Josh Kelly.

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