Veteran Richmond star Brett Deledio has paid a huge tribute to Dustin Martin on the eve of the dynamic Tiger midfielder’s 150^th game of league football.

Martin will achieve the milestone, which qualifies him for life membership of the Club, in Friday night’s Round 20 clash with Collingwood at the MCG.

“He’s an absolute bull.  To be honest, he’s the best young player that I’ve seen come into the Club since I’ve been here,” Deledio said on RSN this morning.

“His ability just to hunt the footy, win it in close, but then shove people over, break lines, kick goals, and his appetite for the footy, is second to none at the Club.

“I’ve loved playing with him ever since he’s come down here.  I’ve shared some pretty good times with him off the field as well, riding dirt bikes and different things. 

“He’s a good kid and he’s only getting better.”

Deledio has been extremely impressed with Martin’s growing maturity and professional approach to the game.

“He does a lot of extra work . . . rather than just pumping iron, he’ll spend a lot of time doing circuits,” Deledio said.

“He’s a naturally powerful bloke, so he doesn’t need to lift a lot of weight . . .

“Another big thing for him is his diet.  He’s changed the way he eats . . .

“He’s really quite measured and controlled these days.

“He has grown up a hell of a lot and matured before our very eyes.”