Emerging Tiger key tall Ty Vickery plays the most crucial role in the Richmond team, according to team-mate Jack Riewoldt.

Vickery found some of his best form last week against St Kilda, registering a career-high for disposals (18) and marks (11).

Riewoldt, who plays alongside the improving 23-year-old, said the Tigers are a better side for having Vickery in it.

“I think we saw on the weekend the evolution of Tyrone Vickery, getting back to some of the form he had previously, before he had shoulder injuries in the last few years,” Riewoldt said.

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“He plays what I believe is the most crucial role in modern day footy.

“A lot of sides don’t take two ruckmen in to play in games these days.  You really need that key forward that can play in the ruck.

“For our development as a side, I think Tyrone’s personal improvement has made us a better side, and will continue to make us a better side.

“He’s 199cms, and a really strong lad, so hopefully he can continue to play good footy…move well, and play that role for us in the ruck, but more importantly when he’s up forward, hitting the scoreboard, where he’s a vital option for us.”

Vickery has played 66 games in his career so far, and kicked 65 goals.