RICHMOND forward Todd Elton faces a period on the sidelines to recover from a shoulder injury, but he will not require surgery in a small boost to the Tigers' depleted tall stocks.
Elton dislocated his right shoulder in the VFL against Werribee on Saturday and the club said he would undergo a rehab program, with his return date unclear at this stage.
The 24-year-old had his arm in a sling following Saturday's match, but subsequent scans showed he would not require surgery as the Tigers search for tall options to support key forward Jack Riewoldt.
Elton has played six games this season and kicked just one goal, but Ben Griffiths' concussion issues have opened the door for the 24-year-old as Riewoldt's regular sidekick.
Griffiths remains sidelined indefinitely, with his issues being treated the same as a long-term injury after two concussions this season and more than five through his career.
The Tigers used Riewoldt as their only tall forward in Saturday's win against North Melbourne, putting faith in a fleet of medium and small goalkickers and backing Toby Nankervis as the sole ruckman.
Young ruckman Ivan Soldo, who fell awkwardly in the VFL clash against Werribee, was cleared of injury and is expected to be available for selection after the Tigers' round 12 bye.
The Tigers hope Nick Vlastuin will be available for the round 13 clash against Sydney at the MCG, with the 23-year-old close to recovering from a fractured scapula in his right shoulder.
