Collingwood defender Alan Toovey has downplayed the courage he showed in last Friday night's AFL clash, saying he thought he would avoid contact.

Toovey was released from hospital on Monday, still suffering a bruised lung after the shocking collision with Geelong ruck-forward Tom Hawkins.

The Magpies backman ran back with the flight of the ball and cannoned into Hawkins, who was charging in the opposite direction.

Play was held up for several minutes while Toovey was stretchered from the ground with blood coming out of his nose and mouth.

"It'll be good to get out of hospital and get home. I'm feeling alright," he said.

"It happens every day. You just don't get cleaned up every time.

"I thought I was in the clear from the voice behind, but it didn't turn out that way.

He is an unlikely starter for Sunday's Etihad Stadium clash with Adelaide.

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