Veteran Richmond star Brett Deledio is looking forward to the AFL debut of talented, young Tiger Oleg Markov in Saturday night’s Round 16 clash with the Western Bulldogs under the Etihad Stadium roof.
The 20-year-old, who was the Richmond’s second selection (No. 50 overall) in last year’s National Draft, has made impressive progress throughout the season at VFL level.
Deledio especially liked what he saw from Markov in a role as a rebounding defender against VFL ladder leader Casey at Punt Road last Sunday.
“I saw a bit out of Oleg Markov on the weekend,” Deledio said on RSN.
“He’s only a wiry young fellow, but he’s got that dare and dash . . . he’s really quite quick.
“He just needs to put on some size and keep backing himself in.
“He’s learned his craft down at half-back at the moment, so he’s one (to keep an eye on).”
Another Tiger youngster whose development Deledio is particularly keen to follow, is Jason Castagna, the Club’s second pick in the AFL’s rookie draft at the end of 2014.
Castagna, who made his senior league debut for Richmond early this season, and played two games all-up, has earned a recall for the encounter with the Bulldogs on Saturday night following some strong form in the VFL.
“He finds the footy and he’s got some dash,” Deledio said.
“He’s not afraid to use his side-step and get himself out of trouble.
“He has a bit of dare, which I’m all for.
“I love blokes that back themselves in . . .”
