Rock-solid Richmond defender Chris Newman is being reinvented as a midfielder in the twilight of his league career.

Newman, who resigned the Tigers’ captaincy at the end of last season, after four years in the role, has spent this pre-season preparing for a permanent place in the midfield throughout season 2013.

Richmond midfield coach Danny Daly believes the move will provide the 30-year-old veteran of 214 league games with a new lease of football life.

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“’Newy’ was getting a lot of attention from opposition players at half-back last season, which probably limited his effectiveness.  This will give him the chance to be released and will revitalise him,” Daly said.

“He is an excellent user of the football, which will help the quality of our forward-50 entries.

“He’s feeling really good about it and looking forward to the challenge. 

“After giving up the captaincy, this is another opportunity for him to play good footy.

“He’ll probably play on the wing, but, of course, he has the flexibility to go to the backline if we need him there at any stage.

“At the end of the day, however, we need to build a back six without Newy, who has held the defence together so admirably, for so long.”