Richmond coach Damien Hardwick believes Chris Knights is well prepared for his long-awaited comeback to senior league ranks after an absence of nearly two years due to a serious knee injury.

Knights has been selected in the Tigers’ team for Saturday night’s Round 3 encounter with Brisbane at the Gabba on the back of recent strong form at VFL level.

Round 3 team: Knights comeback complete

“The one thing we like to see is two full games, and Chris has done that now (in the VFL) and played very well in both,” Richmond coach Hardwick said.

“He's improved his flexibility being able to go through the midfield. It was the one thing we spoke about with him at the end of last year, improving his flexibility.

“Whether it's half-forward, midfield or wing, he's put his hand up in all of those areas.

“He's capable of kicking 40 goals a season . . . it'd be nice if he gets a bag for us on Saturday night.”

Knights, 28, kicked 43 goals in his best season of AFL football in 2009 while playing for the Adelaide Crows.