Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley has stated his club will take its time with veteran midfielder Daniel Wells.

Wells has struggled with a Lisfranc foot injury since the middle of last year, but has played the last three games in the VFL, winning the ball and kicking goals.

Buckley believes he could have a serious impact for the Pies and give them another element when he returns.

“That’s his aim and that’s our endeavour (for Wells to have an impact at AFL level),” he told SEN’s Whateley.

“He’s done remarkably well to come back from that footy injury and he’s now played three games back (in the VFL) and shown more than glimpses. He’s shown his evasiveness and his ball use is as damaging as it ever has been.

“He’s up and about and his foot is in good shape which is a tick. He’s had consistent training and a slow and steady build up through the pre-season to get his foot right.

“Now it’s his capacity to be able to step that up over four quarters at VFL level and then step it up to AFL intensity.

“Now it’s a matter of franking that. It doesn’t need to be a long run at it, he could have a significant impact for us.”

Buckley admitted that the 34-year-old doubted whether he could get back from the foot injury.

“Wells had had a remarkable career and his talent is evident and obvious. I think that when you get to the tail end of careers the next injury might be your last year and Wells has probably been there for three or four years to be honest,” Buckley said.

“Even in himself I know he’s had moments asking whether this is a bridge too far, but right now as we speak we’re moving into Round 7 of a season so there is plenty of time.”

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