RICHMOND is unsure when vice-captain Brett Deledio will be available to return from a persistent calf problem, with the All Australian unlikely to face Melbourne on Friday night.
Deledio was ruled out of last week's clash against the Brisbane Lions as he battled calf soreness, which resurfaced after he played in round one after an interrupted pre-season.
He was suspended for the Tigers' round two clash against the Western Bulldogs but would have missed that match in any case through injury.
Coach Damien Hardwick was hopeful last week the important veteran would be ready for Friday night's clash against the Demons, but he is now unlikely to return.
"Calves are notoriously fickle and they take a little longer than anticipated to completely recover," CEO Brendon Gale told SEN.
"Brett would be no better than 50-50 this week, perhaps a little worse.
"He'd probably be doubtful this week, but beyond that I'm not really sure."
Richmond confirmed on Monday night that Deledio was unlikely to be available this week, with defender Dylan Grimes also facing one week on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
