Magpie Ben Reid is a confirmed starter for his first match in almost three months in Saturday's preliminary final against Greater Western Sydney at the MCG. 

There are no late changes, with both teams as selected on Thursday night.

Reid produced some good form as a key forward in Mason Cox's absence earlier in the season before calf and hamstring issues threatened to end his season – and potentially his career. 

Instead, the 30-year-old has a big role to play for Collingwood in what will be his first senior appearance since round 15. 

Superstar Jordan De Goey's hamstring setback opened a spot in the forward line for Reid, while James Aish returns for his first game since round 18 as Levi Greenwood's replacement.

James Aish is back for the Pies. Picture: AFL Photos

Greenwood ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during the Pies' qualifying final defeat of Geelong a fortnight ago.

The Giants turned to former Collingwood big man Lachie Keeffe and seven-gamer Ian 'Bobby' Hill as cover for big-name teammates Lachie Whitfield (appendix) and Toby Greene (suspension).

The Magpies are gunning to make their sixth Grand Final since 2002, whereas GWS is trying to qualify for a maiden decider.

Damien Hardwick's Richmond, which came from 21 points behind at half-time to defeat the Cats on Friday night, is waiting for Saturday's winner.

NO LATE CHANGES

FINAL INTERCHANGES
Collingwood: James Aish, Chris Mayne, Callum Brown, Rupert Wills
Greater Western Sydney: Adam Tomlinson, Harry Himmelberg, Daniel Lloyd, Adam Kennedy