Tony Greenberg continues his examination on richmondfc.com.au of the burning questions on the lips of Tiger supporters in the lead-up to the 2012 season. Today he contemplates . . .
Can Brett Deledio become one of the elite midfielders of the competition?
With the Tigers now having half-backs coming out of their ears, following the arrival at Punt Road late last year of Steven Morris and Brandon Ellis, to add to the mix of players such as Bachar Houli, Jake Batchelor, Matt Dea and skipper Chris Newman, dual Jack Dyer Medallist Deledio will be granted his wish to return to the midfield. Expect the 24-year-old veteran of 150 league games to respond to the challenge in a manner befitting a player of his calibre.
Deledio has plied his trade superbly across half-back over the past few seasons, generating plenty of drive for the team with his slick run-and-carry. The time is right for him to make the move into the middle on a permanent basis. He’s coming into his prime as a league footballer and is very driven to put his stamp on the competition as one of its leading midfielders. Don’t worry about the fact he’s yet to put pen to paper on a new contract deal at Tigerland . . . that prove no distraction to him.
Being the consummate professional that he is, Deledio will prepare himself in the best possible way to ensure he’s ready to bolster Richmond’s midfield with his class.
Will he become an elite midfielder? Have your say in the comments below
View previous burning questions:
- Will Ivan Maric significantly boost Richmond's ruck stocks?
- The draftees - How many of the 2011 draftees can have an impact in 2012?
- Is Alex Rance the real deal?