The return of key forward Ash Johnson headlines some strong inclusions to Collingwood's VFL side for this Friday's Round 16 clash against the Gold Coast SUNS. 

The 27-year-old hasn't played officially at any level in 2025, having fractured his left fibula in a pre-season VFL clash against the Northern Bullants earlier this year.

It will be his first VFL game since August last year, with the tall lining up in the forward pocket.

Fellow AFL-listed players Ed Allan and Wil Parker are also part of six changes for Friday's game, with Allan in for his first VFL match since April.

The 21-year-old had played seven AFL games in a row until he fell ill last week, forcing him out of the clash with Carlton.

Parker was one of the replacements for the AFL clash last week and played as thre sub in the 56-point win over the Blues, however he returns to the VFL team this weekend for the trip to the sunshine state.

VFL-listed players Ben De Bolfo, Christian Algeri and Harrison Kennedy are the three other inclusions.

The six outs for Friday's curtain-raiser are Mason Cox (AFL selection) and VFL-listed quintet Riley Mason, Josh Murphy, Conor Willis, Jake Watts and Michael Kiraly. 

The Pies sit eighth on the VFL table after 13 games and have had a strong season, including an after the siren win against Sandringham three weeks ago, followed by a nine-point victory over third-placed Southport a fortnight ago.

They'll take on a 17th-placed SUNS outfit this week who are currently on a two-game winning streak with close wins over Casey and Essendon.

Friday's match kicks off 3:35pm (AEST) at people First Stadium, setting the stage for the evening's top eight clash between each club's AFL sides later on. 

Fans with a ticket to the AFL clash can arrive early to see the VFL match.

Smithy’s VFL Round 16
Friday 11 July
Gold Coast SUNS v Collingwood
People First Stadium, Gold Coast, Yugambeh
3:35pm (AEST)