New Collingwood coach Craig McRae was unable to guarantee if Jordan De Goey will feature for the club again when speaking to reporters on Monday.
De Goey is facing charges of assault after an incident in a New York nightclub in late October.
As Collingwood's first to fourth year players returned to training under McRae’s watchful eye, he fronted a press conference for the first time after his official induction.
He kept his cards close to his chest when asked about De Goey.
“Time will tell on that, there's a bit to play out,” McRae said.
“It's a little bit premature to say whether he'll be back here training and the like.
“But one thing I will say is (I'm) just touching base with Jordy regularly to make sure he's OK.
“Over my journey working with some great coaches I've learnt that you just want to make sure the person's OK and care for the person first.”
The Collingwood star’s next court date is currently set for December 8, however he’s expected to appear in a New York court via video link.
McRae hinted he wants to wait until after the legal proceedings before commenting further.
“One thing I've probably learned over this period in particular is to just be patient and let the facts come before you pass judgement,” he continued.
“I'll just let that take it's own course, but (I'm) more concerned about Jordy's wellbeing.
“I've just been touching base with him regularly and I know he's training hard over there now.
“I think he's sort of coming to terms with everything but I won't go into full detail about everything that we spoke about.”
He also struggled to answer when asked whether De Goey would be welcome at the club.
“At the moment I'm making sure that when the opportunity presents - if it presents - that Jordy will feel well-supported,” McRae said.
“I want all our players, not just Jordy, to feel that I've got their back and show the love and support where it's needed.”
De Goey has been a constant enigma in the AFL, but a full-time move into the Pies’ midfield in the back half of 2021 proved dividends as he became one of the club’s most important players.
He’s expected to return to Australia from the United States before the end of November.