Tom Mitchell opens up injury battle, Pies’ shaky flag defence ahead of must-win clash with Ginni’s Hawks

Collingwood star Tom Mitchell admits his long road back from a foot injury has been “frustrating” as he eyes a return this season to help the club’s shaky premiership defence.

After commencing a running program last week, Mitchell reported soreness in his foot again to push back his return to the field.

The 31-year old hasn’t played since Anzac Day after undergoing surgery in June due to plantar fascia.

Speaking to foxfooty.com.au this week, Mitchell conceded post-surgeries “don’t always go perfectly to plan,” but remained upbeat about how he was tracking.

“It’s nothing we’re too concerned about, it’s just part of the process and it’s going to take slightly longer than we thought,” he said.

“Things are still going well, I’m running and feeling better than I was pre surgery, so there’s still lots of little wins I’m having at the moment.

“I’d love to play this year, I obviously love playing footy and I want to be out there helping the team. I want to play and that’s my goal for sure.”

After being limited by the injury early in the season, Mitchell said it got to a point where his foot “became too sore” daily and he was “going downhill” – including not training or running as they opted for surgery.

While Mitchell’s rehab has been the veteran midfielder’s main priority, he’s also used his time on the sidelines to focus on being the best teammate he can.

One of many injuries at Collingwood this season to compound its on-field issues, Mitchell said it “wasn’t all doom and gloom” in that it’s helped the club expose young talent including unearthing six debutants.

But with only six home and games remaining, Mitchell’s return, like the club’s premiership defence, is running out of time.

“It’s been frustrating but I think I’ve managed to hold myself together pretty well and found ways to improve in other spaces rather than just on the field,” he said.

“I’ve focused on being a good teammate, contributing in meetings and being a good leader to the younger guys.

“I’m putting a lot of energy into my rehab at the moment and hopefully the tide will turn and I’ll be able to get out there very soon.”