Well what I'm going to say next is sure to spark some heated debate but...
I think Hardwick, our developing youth and the club in general would benefit from Richo's absence next year.
In terms of the future and assisting in making us a better club going forward I can't see how he would benefit the process. Richo is not a natural leader, nor is he a great on-field role model. What he definitely is is a fantastic football player and athlete but given his injuries and age perhaps we should stop delaying the inevitable and retire him.
Even if we were to keep him for next year what would it achieve. he may take up the place of another developing player, cause problems in our forwardline, allow the opposition to run off him, bring disunity to the list - I don't know, but
what actual benefits would our club get from keeping Richo in the long term? I just can't see many other than supporter/media loyalty, thanks and universal love. That won't help us going forward though...
Sorry, just my take
Stripes