RICHMOND coach Terry Wallace attended a team meeting at Punt Road on Thursday morning, but returned to hospital straight after to continue his recovery from a respiratory infection.

Wallace was admitted to hospital on Wednesday as a "precautionary measure" and is expected to remain there for another night.

However, the club remains confident that he will still coach the side in its clash with Essendon at the MCG on Saturday.

Richmond's director of coaching Brian Royal and assistant coaches David King, Craig McRae and Jade Rawlings are covering responsibilities in his absence, with Royal expected to take charge on Saturday should Wallace require more rest.