The reliability of hard-nosed midfielder Matt Thomas offers considerable comfort to Richmond coach Damien Hardwick at the business end of the season.

Thomas was recalled to the Tigers’ line-up as a replacement for injured captain Trent Cotchin in last Saturday night’s match against Essendon at the MCG.

Although it was only Thomas’ second senior appearance for the season, he responded in typically tough, no-frills, efficient style, finishing with 20 disposals, including 12 contested possessions, an equal team-high six clearances, six score involvements, five marks and a goal.

“We know what Matt brings week in, week out.  He brings contested ball and tackle numbers, which is obviously important come September,” Hardwick said.

“It’s just getting the right balance of our side. 

“He’s within that 25-28 players we want to have training and available to play. 

“It’s just going to be a matter of circumstance whether Matt plays on a week-to-week basis.  He knows that. 

“But what I know is when I call upon Matt Thomas, he’s ready to go, which is what I love about him.”