Richmond General Manager of Football, Dan Richardson, has described Daniel Jackson’s retirement decision as ‘selfless’.
Jackson called time on his AFL career on Friday morning, after 156 games at the highest level, following a tough battle with injuries in 2014.
"We've been aware of his challenges this year trying to get his body right, obviously there's physical and also mental challenges with that," Richardson said on Friday.
"So we weren't shocked by the decision, but in the end obviously that got the better of him and he's made a decision that it's all over for him.
"After a great year last year winning the Jack Dyer Medal, obviously Dan was hoping to repeat that but injuries have got the better of him this year.
"In the end he's made a really selfless decision. He wasn't confident in his body – not only next year – but even right now."
The 28-year-old was restricted to just 10 games this season after an interrupted pre-season, and suffered with hip, glute and lower back injuries during the year.
Richmond coach Damien Hardwick and Richardson unsuccessfully tried to convince Jackson to see out the season.
"Certainly we both tried to do that but you could see in his eyes that he was comfortable with the call and in the end that's all you can do (is) respect that," Richardson said.
Richardson hoped Jackson's emotional farewell would have a positive impact on the playing group ahead of the Power clash.
"I think in many ways the impact will be positive in a sense because it's a reminder for us all that footy doesn't last forever and you've got to take your opportunities when they're in front of you," he said.
"There was some emotion in the room, I have no doubt about that, but the players have been around a bit and understand these situations happen in footy.
"Dan was certainly really emotional but as far as the playing group is concerned the timing and the announcement is about making sure that we're able to focus on this weekend."
Jackson's place in the squad to face the Power was taken by Ben Lennon, with the final 22 to be named later on Friday.
Richardson lauded Jackson as a great clubman and "a great role model for the game", whose community and AFL Players' Association work would hold him in good stead for life after football.
