It’s taken him into his 10^th season of AFL football, but robust Richmond midfielder Daniel Jackson finally feels like he belongs at the game’s highest level.

That growing self-belief has translated on-field, with Jackson in career-best form throughout season 2013.

The 27-year-old veteran of 143 games with the Tigers is averaging 21.8 disposals per game this season and, for good measure, he’s steered through a career-high 16 goals so far, to add to his overall value to the team.

“I think it’s the first year that I’ve actually felt like I belong in the system, and that’s why I’m playing better footy out there,” Jackson told SEN’s “Hen House” program.

“I actually back myself in because for years I never really quite thought I was up to the level that everyone else was.

“It’s been a pretty tough journey.  It took me a long time to get a kick, and then I’ve had issues with injuries and suspensions the last few years.

“I’ve grown a lot from it and I’m a better person for it.

“When I do finish one day, I know I’ll look back very fondly on what could be 12 years . . . who knows, it could be more.”

Jackson maintains a realistic perspective on his football capabilities . . .

“I’m probably my own biggest critic,” he said.

“I just see myself as a solid citizen.  I go out there, I don’t do anything fancy.  When I do try and do fancy things, I often stuff them up.

“This year, I’ve managed to kick a few goals, and that’s nice, but I genuinely pride myself on doing the little things.

“I love winning the hard ball and I love giving it to a teammate, like a Cotchin, who’s going to be able to use it better than myself.

“I’m naturally more inclined to do the defensive stuff instead of the offensive stuff.

“That’s probably why I was suited to tagging for so long.

“As long as I’m contributing, I’m quite happy . . .”

The Hen House, hosted by Tiffany Cherry, can be heard on SEN each Sunday, from 10pm-11pm.