AFL LIVE updates: Ruckman stretchered off after collision, but Giants surge late in first term against Pies

Despite being one of the league’s best wingman, Josh Daicos will spend time as a rebounding playmaker in the Pies defence.

Speaking on Fox Footy today, coach Craig McCrae said Daicos’ decision-making would bolster the backline because “the ability to gain meters and execute from the deep 50 is really critical … being able to get the ball out [against the Giants’ pressure] is going to be important today”.

Earlier this week McCrae said the addition of Dan Houston would also strengthen that aspect of Collingwood’s game.

“To have Josh, and futuristically have Houston, they are a couple of weapons that will ask a lot of questions of the opposition,” he said.

The Magpies will unveil recruit Harry Perryman, named on a wing where Daicos once ruled, while former Saints’ forward Tim Membrey was named on an extended bench, but McRae said he remained in firm contention to play.