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http://www.richmondfc.com.au/video/2018-06-26/hardwick-on-selection-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Star Tiger set to return for Etihad blockbusterafl.com.au
Jun 26, 2018 PREMIERSHIP midfielder Dion Prestia is set to return for Richmond in its top-of-the-ladder clash with Sydney on Thursday night.
The 25-year-old has not played since round seven after battling a calf injury, and has managed just four games this year.
But the former Gold Coast star is expected to be brought straight back into the Tigers' line-up for the contest.
Coach Damien Hardwick said the Tigers had prepared Prestia to be available at AFL level.
"Dion will be available for selection this week, which is a real positive for us," Hardwick said on Tuesday.
"He's had a really good, solid training block so he'll put his hand up straight away for AFL [selection] and we'll make that decision today (Tuesday)."
Prestia was a key cog in Richmond's midfield last year as it surged towards its drought-breaking premiership in what was his first season at the club after crossing from the Suns.
He gathered 27 disposals and kicked a goal in the Tigers' Grand Final win over Adelaide.
Hardwick said the club had thought about bringing Prestia back through the VFL but decided against it.
"We did consider it but the fact is we got two really good training blocks with Dion and that was always the train of thought just to get him right for AFL," he said.
"He's such a vital player to the way we play and we can't wait to have him back. He'll get through training today and he'll put his hand up and he'll play this week, which is good."
Key defender David Astbury will return from the ankle injury that saw him miss the Tigers' clash with Geelong in round 13 before its bye last week, but defender Bachar Houli is not yet ready with his groin injury.
http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-06-26/star-tiger-set-to-return-for-topofthetable-blockbuster