Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley has backed Jordan De Goey following the under-fire forward's reported talking to by senior Magpies players.
A report in The Age on Monday stated Collingwood's leaders had implored the enigmatic De Goey to lift his standards on and off the field.
The supremely talented De Goey, who missed the Magpies' round-six game through concussion, has been unable to recapture his matchwinning ways this season.
Buckley said the 25-year-old's form was among the least of Collingwood's problems as they sit in 17th on the ladder at 1-6.
"Jordy was knocked out in round five, missed a game, then had one game back last week," Buckley said.
"There's been a lot of commentary around that, and once again that's another narrative and storyline that's taken place.
"What I will say is a lot of it is inaccurate, but trying to put out every little fire that's happening at the moment is not where our focus is.
"We support Jordy absolutely. He's a young man who's trying and endeavouring to contribute to the club as best he possibly can.
"He's one of 45 other young men who are trying to do the same in a playing sense and a staff that are extended from that.
"Whatever we do - win, lose or draw - we'll do it together and we won't carve anyone away.
"Feeding into that narrative is something I plan to do."
When De Goey stars, Collingwood rarely lose, as exemplified by him kicking four goals against Carlton in round two - the Magpies' only win for the season so far.
