Kane Lambert’s successful return to Richmond’s senior side was another key highlight for the Tigers in their 109-point victory over West Coast at Optus Stadium last Friday night.

The hard-running, triple Tiger premiership star, who has been battling a chronic hip complaint, produced a top-notch performance in his first appearance at AFL level this season.

He finished the match with 22 disposals, seven marks, five inside-50s, nine score involvements and 296 metres gained.

"It was really good (to be back), it had been a long pre-season for me and there was a little bit of uncertainty about what it looked like," Lambert said. 

"I returned to the VFL for a few weeks and it was good to get a run with the development boys there, but I'm really happy to be back in the senior squad.

"I feel like I've still got a fair bit to offer and to contribute with a few disposals is nice, but helping the boys like Maurice and Stacky is also important to me as well.

"(The win) was important for our group. There were processes that we needed to execute and we felt like we improved in those areas, but we've got to keep moving on."

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick paid tribute to Lambert in his post-match press conference.

"He was huge, the way he played, but also his leadership in and around the place," Hardwick said.