Magpies admit Hill is 'a long way away from playing footy'

Collingwood coach Craig McRae says Bobby Hill is "a long way away" from returning to the AFL.

The 2023 Norm Smith medallist was back at Collingwood training on Thursday morning after returning from a trip to Western Australia for personal reasons.

The forward has played three VFL matches this year and his most recent AFL appearance was in round 22 last season.

Asked how Hill was faring, McRae said: "Truthfully, battling."

"I had a really good chat with Bobby this morning and over the last period," McRae added.

"He has a bit going on, let's be really clear. He has a lot going on.

"He's a work in progress, but it's nice to have him in the building.

"He's a long way away from playing footy … but again, when he's in our building, at least we get some opportunities to make him feel that he's loved and appreciated."

Bobby Hill has not played an AFL match since last year. ( Getty Images/AFL Photos: Michael Willson )

McRae said Hill would not play at any level this weekend.

"There's a lot of work to be done before he plays," McRae said.

Brayden Maynard will not return this Saturday against Port Adelaide, as he continues his recovery from a dislocated shoulder he suffered in the King's Birthday loss to Melbourne.

"Reality set in that he probably has a bit more work to do on that shoulder," McRae said.

"It's still a little bit unstable.

"He's a warrior, he wants to play most weeks. He said, 'Don't count me out for next week', but we'll see how that goes."

Captain Darcy Moore also has returned from an overseas trip as he recovers from a hamstring injury.

It remains unclear when he will play again.

Pies keen on Neale

The Magpies are poised to make a massive offer for Brisbane star Lachie Neale, who is a free agent at the end of the season.

"I've said openly that we want to be in the market for free agents," McRae said.

"We'll explore everyone who's still available.

"We have to be progressive in the way we think about the game. We've created a free agency for a reason. It's like going fishing in a small pond."

Lachie Neale is expected to leave the Lions at the end of the season. ( Getty Images/AFL Photos: Robert Cianflone )

McRae said recruiting a player such as Neale would immediately boost the Magpies.

"There's definitely an energy. When we bring Dan Houston and Harry Perryman in … the locker room gets excited," he said.

AAP