Collingwood coach Craig McRae has declared he wants free agent Jordan De Goey to remain at the club beyond this season.
De Goey was one of his side’s best players in Friday night’s dramatic seven-point win over reigning premiers Melbourne, kicking a goal and laying three tackles as part of a 25-disposal game.
As the likes of St Kilda and Geelong continue to weigh up whether to make a move for the 26-year-old, McRae says that he wants De Goey to stick with the club in 2023.
“He's a free agent (and) that's his right to explore his options,” he said post-match.
“I speak authentically – I'd love Jordan (De Goey) to stay. I'm aware that's going to create a headline but we live in the moment and let Jordy keep being himself around our environment and make us better.
“Nights like tonight are a good example of his assets. It makes us better.”
De Goey has been in the spotlight all season, with a mid-season trip to Bali and the fall out around his conduct overseas leading to him taking a period of personal leave.
He then sustained a quad injury, having only returned to the senior side in the last fornight.