Pies stand down Krakouer

Collingwood forward Andrew Krakouer has been granted a month's leave of absence from the club that will disrupt the final critical stages of his pre-season.

The 29-year-old is taking advantage of a four-week leave pass to attend to some personal issues.

The timing, on the eve of the Magpies' NAB Cup campaign, couldn't be much worse for Krakouer who scored 35 goals in 23 appearances in his debut season with the club in 2011.

In a prepared statement, Collingwood said both parties agreed that it would be best for Krakouer to work through his issues without the pressure associated with his normal training and playing commitments.

"The issues that Andrew is dealing with are of a personal nature, and we will be supporting him in every way possible during this period," said Collingwood football director Geoff Walsh.

"Andrew is held in high regard at Collingwood and we look forward to his return to team training in due course."

Krakouer will be given a revised training program to help him to maintain his fitness and ball skills, but he will not be required to take part in the club's normal training sessions.

Collingwood said Krakouer will be given every opportunity to put himself in a position to return to the senior squad and play a meaningful role in the club's 2012 campaign.