Hawthorn great Dermott Brereton is backing Richmond to bounce back in a big way in 2022.
After winning three premierships in four years, the Tigers finished 12th this year to miss the finals with injuries to key players – including superstar Dustin Martin – contributing to the club’s lowest ladder position since 2016.
Richmond bolstered their defence in the trade period by acquiring veteran Robbie Tarrant from North Melbourne, but lost talls Callum Coleman-Jones and Mabior Chol to the Kangaroos and Gold Coast respectively, while premiership defender David Astbury announced his retirement.
The Tigers will have a new skipper in 2022 after three-time premiership captain Trent Cotchin relinquished the leadership position after nine seasons in the role.
Speaking on SEN Drive, Brereton is predicting Damien Hardwick’s side to rediscover their best football and win the premiership next year.
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“I’ve got them winning the premiership next year,” the five-time premiership Hawk said.
“You can’t dismiss the Dees, they’re right up there in the top three, but I’ve got the Tigers to bounce back and win (the flag).
“I reckon Tarrant in the backline is going to be huge for them and they’ll get a good run with injuries this coming year.”
Richmond will inject more youth onto their list as they take a strong hand to this year’s National Draft.
The Tigers currently hold picks 7, 15, 26, 27, 28 and 83.