Why Pies superstar chose to forget about grand final

Collingwood premiership superstar Nick Daicos has declared his side is hungrier than ever, as they attempt to go back-to-back in 2024.

The 21-year-old spoke candidly at the movie premiere of the Magpies documentary Take The Steps, that goes behind the scenes of their successful 2023 campaign.

It was Daicos' scary hairline fracture in his knee that he sustained against Hawthorn in round 21 of last season, that has spurred him on to stay as fit as possible in the hopes of repeating last year's mighty grand final victory.

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"Everyone is very driven to achieve what we achieved last year. It was such a great feeling," Daicos told 9News Melbourne at Wednesday night's premiere at Melbourne Central.

"We've definitely celebrated 2023, we're super proud of our efforts. But we've ... drawn a line in the sand now, we know that's last year and the ladder will reset.

"We're ready to go for 2024."

Daicos' injury sidelined him until after Collingwood's mighty seven-point win over Melbourne in the 2023 qualifying final, as he raced against the clock to prove his fitness that would ultimately lead him to premiership success.

The new club documentary uncovers a behind the scenes look at the extra recovery that the star midfielder put in to fast-track his comeback.

"It can be pretty daunting when you're aiming and you've got a time frame when you're trying to rush to get back," Daicos admitted.

"You'll see my recovery process and the little details to getting back out there."

As for their 2024 campaign, despite not yet playing an official game, the results of the club's practice matches have been positive.

They defeated Richmond in a simulation on Tuesday night by a convincing 30 points.

Daicos was strong, collecting 21 disposals and booting a goal.

"There's been lots of training sessions as a little group before we came back officially as a team, getting around one another again," Daicos said.

Collingwood will take on GWS as part of the AFL's inaugural Opening Round, to be held a week before round one.