Not only has Shaun Hampson’s arrival at Richmond from Carlton been crucial in terms of back-up for injured ruckman Ivan Maric, it’s also enabled talented ‘tall’ Ty Vickery to slot into a permanent role up forward.

Vickery was one of the Tigers’ most impressive performers during the pre-season, and senior coach Damien Hardwick has pinpointed him as a player pivotal to the team’s prospects in season 2014.

“We're really pleased with what his output has been,” Hardwick said.

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“It's probably been a plan of ours for a long period of time to just have him a pure key position player.

“We're hoping he can kick a bag of goals this year.

“If we can get an output of 40 goals for the year, and he tackles and chases, we're in a good place.”

Vickery, who is entering his sixth season of AFL football, had a solid year in 2013.  He kicked 27 goals in 21 games and provided Maric with some valuable ruck assistance.

The 23-year-old had his previous season in 2012 ruined by a shoulder injury, after a breakout year in 2011, when he booted 36 goals.