Former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley believes Jordan De Goey is on his final chance but thinks the wayward AFL star is finally on the right path.
The dynamic forward-midfielder is pushing to play in round one since returning to the club in late-January after three months in exile.
De Goey's promising career hung in the balance after Collingwood immediately stood him down after a wild night out in New York in October led to police involvement.
But with the matter now settled after De Goey pled guilty to a downgraded charge of harassment, the 25-year-old is set on returning to the outstanding form he displayed in the back half of the 2021 season.
Buckley, who left the Magpies last June after almost 10 seasons in charge, admitted De Goey needed to "amend his behaviour" but is confident he will do it.
"We'll only find out (if he's improved) if we hear nothing," Buckley told SEN.
"Jordy has always been a risk-taker, he's acted first and thought second.
"When you're in the public domain, and when you're dealing with people, you need to be respectful.
"If he hasn't learnt his lesson now, he'll never get it; I think he's on his way."
De Goey's potential has often been compared to that of Richmond superstar Dustin Martin, but Buckley believes that has been unfair.
"I hate that comparison because I reckon Dusty is going to be along with Wayne Carey and Leigh Matthews, by the time Dusty's career is finished, his name will be up with those as the most impactful careers that I've witnessed," Buckley said.
"(New Collingwood coach) Craig McRae has come across from Richmond, so he knows how Dustin Martin was played.
"Craig McRae is the perfect coach with that understanding to find out what Jordy can do on-field.
"Once you feel like you're getting the best out of yourself in your chosen profession, I reckon it cleans up a lot of other areas because you find this purpose."
De Goey missed Collingwood's practice match against Hawthorn last week with a rib injury but is expected to be available of the season-opening clash with St Kilda on March 18.
