Richmond utility Chris Knights has made a promising return from long-term injury, playing a key role in setting up the Tigers’ VFL win over Geelong at Simonds Stadium last Saturday night.

Knights was playing his first competitive game since the 2014 pre-season, after recovering from a persistent knee injury.

He played the first three quarters of the match, collecting 20 disposals and winning six clearances.

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He was rested in the final quarter, as part of the plan to manage his game time while he returns to peak match fitness.

“Chris was fantastic for three quarters.  His was terrific with his leadership with the younger guys, and he was very good inside.  He helped set our guys up around the stoppages,” said Richmond’s VFL coach Tim Clarke.

“We’re just looking forward to Chris playing a couple more games and getting some continuity with his body.

“Whether he plays senior footy (this season), I don’t think is super important to him.  He’s just happy to be out there playing.”

Knights’ last AFL game was in Round 7, 2013, when he tore his patella tendon against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

He missed the remainder of the year, but was on track for a return at the start of this season, before suffering setback in a practice match against Essendon at the Punt Road Oval, ME Bank Centre in March.

In four games with the Tigers before the injury, Knights was among the better performers, averaging 19.5 disposals and one goal per match.