COLLINGWOOD champion Nathan Buckley is likely to make his return to footy this weekend; the only question is where.
The Magpies coaching staff have hinted at a return via VFL affiliate Williamstown this Saturday against Port Melbourne at TEAC Oval.
The inspirational Collingwood captain has not played a match in almost 12 months due to chronic hamstring problems.
He last pulled on the boots in September last year in the Pies’ disappointing elimination final loss to the Western Bulldogs.
If he lines up for the Seagulls on Saturday, expect too see the biggest VFL crowd for the season.
With Collingwood playing on Friday night against Melbourne, fans are expected to flock to Port Melbourne to catch a glimpse of the Magpies great in his quest to return to the senior side.
Buckley got through a critical fitness test on Thursday in a bid to play on the weekend, but Collingwood medical staff erred on the side of caution, giving the 35-year-old another week to get fit.
Buckley returned from a 12-week hamstring injury in 2005 via Williamstown against Box Hill.
In his only ever match at VFL level, he collected 23 possessions in less than three quarters in front of a massive crowd at the Box Hill City Oval.
Collingwood was beaten by likely wooden spoon Richmond on Friday night, which may prompt an immediate return to the senior side for the Magpie great.
Selection on Thursday night for both Collingwood and Williamstown will be eagerly awaited by coaching staff, players and supporters alike.
And Buckley for that matter.
