Richmond midfielder Reece Conca has returned to training just nine days after minor knee surgery, ensuring the 22-year-old is on track for the Tigers' pre-season campaign.

Conca, who did not miss a session pre-Christmas, was running laps for much of Wednesday's gruelling session in hot conditions.

He was joined on light duties by prized draftee Corey Ellis, who was monitored closely as he returns from foot surgery, running laps with a trainer at the ME Bank Centre. 

Vice-captain Brett Deledio, 27, was restricted to light touch work as he is managed through soreness.

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Meanwhile, Shaun Grigg, Matt Dea, Nathan Gordon, Nathan Drummond and Daniel Butler completed laps and a series of run-throughs.

The Tigers' main group was pushed in the heat, completing a lengthy running session before moving into more detailed ball-movement drills.

There was a focus on the team's rebound out of defensive 50m, with tall backmen Alex Rance and Jake Batchelor playing key roles.