Lively Richmond small forward Dan Butler has echoed star Tiger key defender Alex Rance’s sentiments about Trent Cotchin’s captaincy.

Following Richmond’s stirring 13-point win against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval last Saturday night, Rance described Cotchin as the best captain in the competition.

“He’s really matured into his role and I love that he’s answered all those critics that have been so hard on his back over the last couple of years,” Rance said.

“He was super today. I just love playing for him.”

Butler, the leading goalkicker in the Round 15 clash with three, told 3AW that Cotchin is a “pretty amazing leader”.

“He’s quite quiet off the field, but on the field he’s very calm and composed under pressure, especially addressing the group,” Butler said.

“He’s also lifted his game in terms of the contested footy and tackling . . . he’s leading the way in that.

“As a young player, it’s pretty inspiring watching him.

“You always know he’s going to win his one v one against his other (opposition) midfielder because he just loves to hunt the ball and the opposition.

“He’s always, as any good leader would, helping everyone else on the field. He’s never spraying or anything . . . he’s more being really constructive.

“And it gives everyone around him great confidence. They can hear what he has to say and just follow through with his orders.

“So he’s really good like that.

“I’m really happy he’s my captain.”