COLLINGWOOD wunderkind Jaidyn Stephenson has been struck down with glandular fever.

The brilliant young forward hasn't been seen at the Holden Centre since being diagnosed with the debilitating illness last week.

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The Magpies believe Stephenson has contracted only a "mild" bout of the condition and don't expect him to be sidelined long-term. They will closely monitor his condition.

The Pies say the third-year star will make an appearance at the club next week.

Stephenson, who will turn 21 on January 15, had started his pre-season campaign on November 18 with the club's first to fourth-year players.

The development continues a draining year for the speedy goalkicker, who was suspended for the last 10 home and away rounds and was fined $20,000 fine for betting on Collingwood games.

The 2018 NAB AFL Rising Star award winner was sorely missed by the Magpies, who struggled to score freely in his absence.

Stephenson returned in September and was a solid performer, averaging 17 possessions and tallying three goals and two goal assists in two finals.

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