Collingwood’s long-time sports science director David Buttifant is expected to reunite with Mick Malthouse at Carlton after leaving the Magpies.

Buttifant served under Malthouse for 11 years at Collingwood, before the veteran coach split with the AFL club at the end of 2011.

The close friends also co-authored a book in 2011 about their methods and experiences.

Buttifant’s exit from the Magpies was announced on Monday and Malthouse immediately confirmed he wanted him running the Blues’ fitness program.

“I rate him as one of the best in Australia,” the Carlton coach told Melbourne’s 3AW radio.

“My information is he’s rated very highly within the world.

“Clearly with Justin Cordy leaving us at the end of this year we’ll be looking at that prospect.”

Collingwood chief executive Gary Pert said Buttifant had left the Magpies in a much better state than when he arrived at the club.

Pert said both parties agreed it was the perfect time for Buttifant to seek a new challenge.