Collingwood x-factor Bobby Hill will miss his side's much anticipated blockbuster against old foes Carlton at the MCG after picking up a virus which ran through the club during the week.

The Magpies ruled their lively forward out with illness in naming their 22 ahead of the clash.

A number of players sat out of training through the week with the virus.

With more than 85,000 expected in the stands on Friday, Hill misses an opportunity to give his side the edge in front of a packed house.

The 23-year-old arrived at Collingwood from GWS at the end of 2022 after previously pushing for a move to Essendon to be closer to family the year prior.

Last time the Blues and Magpies met, Hill opened the scoring and celebrated in style for Sir Doug Nicholls round.

Bobby out the back to open proceedings.#AFLBluesPies | #AFLDeadly pic.twitter.com/so9GMPk427

— AFL (@AFL) May 21, 2023

Ash Johnson similarly lit up the 'G in the May contest, kicking two goals and launching to pluck a hanger before half time.

After an electric start to AFL football through the later stages of 2022, Johnson has struggled to recapture the same form this season.

The 25-year-old inked a two-year extension to stay at Collingwood this week.

Johnson has displayed his ability for taking control of the moment in big games, namely two big goals to give Collingwood a spark in ANZAC Day's nailbiter against Essendon.

He was omitted from the Pies' line up against Port Adelaide last week after kicking three against Fremantle the week prior.

He has played 14 senior games in 2023 among stints in Collingwood's VFL side.

Carlton forward Jesse Motlop has been named on Carlton's interchange.