Daniel McStay is eyeing an extended run in Collingwood's ever-changing forward mix after a successful return from a finger injury and multiple setbacks through illness.
McStay was sidelined for three months following surgery in April to repair a ruptured flexor tendon, and a subsequent infection.
The 28-year-old revealed he also had bouts of the flu and COVID-19 before making his comeback last week with two goals in Collingwood's emphatic win over Fremantle.
It was only his sixth appearance for his new club after a high-profile move from Brisbane via free agency.
In his absence, the ladder-leading Magpies peeled off 10 wins in 11 games to surge into premiership favouritism.
"It was a pretty tough last month or so," McStay told AAP, referencing the effect the infection and illnesses had on his rehabilitation.
"It's never been so hard to watch a team play than it is watching this group.
"They play with so much fun, energy and excitement, and the games are exciting to watch.
"Just to be back out there is a feeling I don't take for granted, that's for sure."
McStay had just one VFL hit-out before returning to senior ranks against Fremantle, when he had seven disposals as the Magpies made light work of their opponents.
"It's always way quicker than you expect it's going to be," McStay said.
"Playing in slippery conditions doesn't help as a forward but it was just good to be back.
"Hopefully I can continue to build some form."
Collingwood kicked a seventh triple-figure score of the season against Fremantle and have never appeared to lack firepower despite injuries forcing frequent changes to personnel in attack.
No.1 ruckman Darcy Cameron's impending return from a back complaint is set to have a flow-on effect for the talls, with McStay, Mason Cox, Ash Johnson and the versatile Billy Frampton all jostling for spots in the side.
"The connection is always the hardest part to get but we're hoping over the next five or six weeks we can really build on that and work it out," McStay said.
"We're a selfless bunch but there's going to be some tough decisions. I'll just try to do everything I can for the team."
Collingwood face their biggest test since the King's Birthday defeat to Melbourne when they meet Port Adelaide in a top-of-the-table clash at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night.
"We love a challenge. It's going to be a massive game," McStay said.
"I'm sure their fans will come out in droves and hopefully the Magpie Army will as well.
"These are the games you want to play and you want to set yourselves up for the pointy end.
"We'll probably have to play Port at some stage in the finals, so it's a great test."
