Collingwood captain Nick Maxwell and Geelong veteran Darren Milburn are late withdrawals from Friday night's AFL blockbuster at the MCG.

Maxwell had been in doubt all week because of a calf muscle injury, while a back problem has sidelined Milburn.

Tyson Goldsack replaces Maxwell for his first senior match since being a member of last year's premiership team.

Allen Christensen will take Milburn's place.

A crowd of at least 70,000 is expected for the clash between the only unbeaten teams so far this season, despite a week of bleak winter conditions.

The persistent rain this week has forced the closure of most MCG car parks.

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