Collingwood defender Charlie Dean’s re-fractured right foot has led to Oleg Markov scoring another AFL lifeline.
The Magpies swooped in on Thursday to offer the former Tiger and Sun a deal after he just started training at Carlton in the hope of filling Zac Williams’ spot on the list, following the dashing Blue’s season-ending ACL setback.
Collingwood defender Charlie Dean’s continued bad injury luck has opened the door for Oleg Markov.Credit:AFL Photos
That guaranteed offer, via the pre-season supplemental selection period, which ends next Wednesday, was enough to prise Markov from Carlton, who are still weighing up how to replace Williams.
The Markov contract is now awaiting league approval before becoming official.
They have trialled one of their VFL-listed players, Alex Cincotta, across the summer, and he is now in pole position to score his AFL shot in the navy blue.
Markov previously had a training stint at Collingwood, who instead opted to sign West Adelaide beanpole Oscar Steene at the start of this week to bolster the club’s ruck depth after trading Brodie Grundy to Melbourne last year.
But ex-VFL standout Dean’s horror luck since earning his shot at the highest level continued last week after he made only two reserves appearances in 2022 due to two separate injuries on the same foot.
The Pies will place the 21-year-old on the inactive list, which opens a list vacancy for hard-running backman Markov, who played 28 of his 51 AFL matches in the past two seasons for Gold Coast.
Collingwood general manager of football Graham Wright said Dean’s latest injury was disappointing.
“While Charlie is an extremely resilient footballer; we empathise with him after being so dedicated during a lengthy rehab last season and over the summer break,” Wright said.
Oleg Markov is heading to Collingwood.Credit:AFL Photos
“Our program will wrap our arms around Charlie and ensure he is well-supported as he recovers.”
Dean and the Magpies will consult a specialist before determining how best to treat this latest foot setback.
