Retired Richmond flag hero Bachar Houli has no idea where Dustin Martin's playing future lies but expects the superstar to be back with a bang in Thursday night's elimination final.
Martin is closing in on a return against Brisbane at the Gabba, having missed the last seven matches with hamstring injuries.
His comeback would be a huge boost for the Tigers as they return to the venue where they captured the 2020 premiership.
Houli retired last year but remains close with triple-premiership teammate Martin, who was a guest at the former defender's house for dinner last week.
Speculation is swirling around where Martin will play beyond this season, amid reports he could seek a move away from Punt Road, but it wasn't a topic of conversation at the Houli residence.
"I try not to nag Dusty because I know he likes to do what he does, no pressure and that," Houli told reporters on Monday after being unveiled as this year's AFL premiership cup ambassador.
"But he looks really good, really comfortable, and I think he's going to make a return.
"Not knowing what he's going to do in the future - because that's Dustin and that's what makes him him - but he looks very comfortable and he's just worried about the near future and wanting to come back and play quality football.
"There's no better player to come back and play the game because he's the biggest finals player that I've ever seen play the game.
"He'll do what's right for Dustin but right now he's just thinking about adding his bit to the team."
Richmond snared three premierships in four seasons before missing the finals last year and squeezed through in seventh spot this time, with four wins and a draw in their last five games.
Contrasting recent seasons, the Tigers are not ranked among the leading flag contenders heading into September.
But they remain a dangerous proposition with so much premiership experience still in their ranks.
"I'd love to see my boys go all the way," Houli said.
"The reality is the pressure's not on them and they go in with great form.
"Dimma (coach Damien Hardwick) would always say the best football is ahead and I think that's the case with our boys, starting with this Thursday night.
"No doubt Brisbane Lions will be a little bit worried, even though they've probably got the edge in their last (encounter) in the big time.
"I think they (Richmond) will be a big chance if they can play their quality football."
Richmond have won their last two clashes with Brisbane but have lost in the sides' last two meetings at the Gabba, including their most recent playoff contest in a 2020 qualifying final.
