Collingwood expect Steele Sidebottom to be available for Saturday’s AFL blockbuster clash with Richmond but the bad news keeps coming for Carlton, who will be without Zac Fisher and Liam Jones for the rest of the season.

Sidebottom clashed heads with Jed Anderson during Saturday’s 66-point win over North Melbourne at the MCG.

The Magpies say he has been cleared of a fracture in his jaw and will face the Tigers in what looms as the biggest clash between the two sides since the 1980 grand final.

Backman Darcy Moore was a late withdrawal with hamstring tightness but is confident he will also be available to line up against the Tigers at the MCG.

Carlton’s injury woes have meanwhile continued with young midfielder Fisher and backman Jones both set to miss the rest of the season.

Fisher, who has been a rare shining light for the Blues this season, broke his left leg during Sunday’s 72-point loss to Hawthorn when he was tripped by Daniel Howe.

Howe is certain to face match review scrutiny for the incident and is also facing a likely suspension for striking Blues midfielder Patrick Cripps.

Scans have also revealed Jones strained the medial ligament in his right knee with the Blues hopeful both players will recover in time for next year’s pre-season.

Adelaide star Rory Sloane’s troublesome right foot was trod on during their win over Brisbane but the Crows say he has pulled up without soreness.

Sloane was sidelined for 10 games earlier this season because of two separate foot injuries.

Rebounding defender Brodie Smith hopes to play in the Showdown against Port Adelaide on Saturday week after making his return from a ruptured ACL through the SANFL.