Richmond development coach Ryan Ferguson provides an analysis of Nick Vlastuin’s top-class 2017 season in this week’s ‘Coaches’ Corner’.

Early-year form as a midfielder

“He was actually quite important to our midfield make-up early. He was doing some really good work in there. But as the season unfolded he found his place down back and he’s been an integral part of our backline of late.”

Elite backman

“A lot of guys want to play midfield, and it’s probably an esteemed position to play. He did a really good job there, but I just think he’s an elite backman . . . Once he got back there that was the best fit for him, for our backline, and for our team.”

Further bolstered the backline

“I thought we were going really well early (in defence), but when he went back he just brought it all together. He was almost a missing ingredient . . . He sees the game really well and has the ability to play every situation on its merits and find his way through whatever it might present . . . He’s a real footballer, with a football brain, and he gets value for possession . . . He doesn’t need huge numbers to still impact the game. And he works in really well with the other guys (defenders).”

Excellent intercept ability

“His intercept numbers are high, which suggests that he does see the game unfold probably a fraction earlier than other guys around him, and he’s able to impact in that way . . . He positions himself perfectly, he cuts the angles, and he knows when we need someone in certain positions, or when to push someone else into those spots.” 

Valuable versatility

“He can play on almost anyone, to be honest. If we do need to free anyone up, he’s a good one to be able to sweep back there. But he can also play on those medium types . . . Defensively, or even setting up some attack, he’s quite handy.”

Impressive leadership qualities

“His leadership is the standards he has and way that he presents himself. When he talks, people listen. He’s not over the top with how often he does that, but he’s got that impact.”

Courage personified

“He’s as brave as they come, and he’s tough, hard at it, and will put himself in any position for the team . . . He’ll hurt opponents, too, in a fair way.”