Justin Leppitsch knows a good forward when he sees one . . .

The triple Brisbane premiership player and three-time All-Australian representative, carved an illustrious league career as a centre half-back, consistently beating the best centre half-forwards in the competition over more than a decade.

So, when Leppitsch, now an assistant coach at Richmond, declares young Tiger tall forward Liam McBean a hot prospect, you clearly take notice.

McBean, who was Richmond’s second pick (No. 33 overall) in the 2012 AFL National Draft, kicked 37  goals from 14 games, in an impressive first-up season playing for the Club’s VFL affiliate Coburg.

“We were disappointed we didn’t get to see him (at AFL level),” Leppitsch told SEN.

“Just watching his VFL form, he’s very exciting.

“Probably his weight (93kg, to go with his 202cm height ), was the only thing that kept him out of the team. 

“He’s a little bit light to go as a second ruckman, but he’s certainly a talented forward.

“I think next season, when he gets a little bit more weight on, he’ll be ready (for AFL action).

“For a guy that’s 200cm-plus, he can pick up a ball at ground level and snap goals.

“It’s bizarre.  He plays like a small midfielder half the time.

“For a guy his height, it’s really rare, his talent, so it’s exciting stuff.

“It’s good for the Club’s future to have someone that you think could be there for a very long period of time.

“I’m looking forward to seeing him at AFL level . . .”