Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury says the club will rally around veteran Travis Varcoe, after the passing of his sister last Tuesday.

The Magpies will meet West Coast in a Qualifying Final this Saturday, but Pendlebury said Varcoe’s situation put the game in perspective.

"We wrap our hands around him. We love the bloke. We really care for him and his family," he said.

"If he plays this weekend that's fantastic. If he doesn't play we know why. It's a game of football.

"Trav's got bigger things with his family he needs to deal with.



Travis Varcoe trains at the Holden Centre gym on Monday morning. Photo: Collingwood Media.

"Trav's been around long enough now that if he thinks he's right to play no doubt he'll play and if he thinks he needs some time he'll take some time.

"We understand that and support him."

Teammate Will Hoskin-Elliott also said the 30-year-old was preparing to play on Saturday.

"I spoke to Trav today and he said he's coping well ... I think he'll play," he said.



Varcoe shares a moment with MND fighter Murray Swinton, who visited the club on Monday morning. Swinton played a key role in Collingwood's lead up to the Big Freeze 4 at the MCG on the Queen's Birthday. Photo: Collingwood Media.