Young Richmond ruckman Ivan Soldo says he has gained “confidence in every game” he has played this season, as he prepares for what could be his first ever finals appearance. 

The 23-year-old has hit career-best form in recent weeks, racking up 69 hit-outs across his past two games.

Following Toby Nankervis’ shining role in Richmond’s VFL win on Saturday, the two are expected to form Richmond’s ruck duo for Saturday night’s qualifying final against Brisbane.

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A trip to the Gabba would mark Soldo's 20th senior outing.

Following 11 AFL games in a breakthrough year, Soldo told SEN on Monday night he is “just happy to be playing” senior football in 2019.

“You’re always learning every game but it’s more the excitement, it’s pretty surreal,” he said.

“You get confidence in every game.

“Nerves do kick up… but it’s more the excitement of doing something that I love.”

If the opportunity presents, Soldo is ready for the challenge of finals football.

“Finals footy is pretty contested. I think my fitness is one thing that I tried really hard in pre-season to get to the standard,” he said.

“Being a ruckman, you’re always at every contest…so that’s going to be key focus area for me.”

The basketball convert, who is the cousin of former Richmond ruckman Ivan Maric, recently signed on for a further two years at the Club.

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Speaking to the media on Monday afternoon, senior coach Damien Hardwick lauded Soldo’s development this season.

“Ivan’s been terrific. He had a slow first quarter last week but the backend of his last three quarters were outstanding. He’s just improved every week,” Hardwick said.

“He’s still learning the game obviously but we’ve been really happy with what he’s put out on the park.”