SEN | EXCLUSIVE: Collingwood has been forced to make a staggering five changes before Saturday night's semi-final against Adelaide, after several players were struck down by injury.

Josh Fraser has been left out with a knee complaint, while Anthony Rocca is out with an ankle injury, and Dayne Beams will miss with a calf problem.

John McCarthy was omitted, and Scott Pendlebury will be sidelined for a couple of weeks with a fractured leg.

The Pies have brought in Brad Dick, Tyson Goldsack, Brent Macaffer, Sharrod Wellingham and Cameron Wood.

But Football Manager Geoff Walsh says the changes are no surprise to the club, and they are still confident they can overcome the Crows on Saturday night.

"You play the cards you're dealt, I think the players coming in are excellent," Walsh said.

"It's great to have the confidence in so many players to be able to step in."

Walsh also said Fraser is likely to return should the Pies reach the preliminary final, while Pendlebury will be monitored.