RICHMOND superstar Dustin Martin played sore against Sydney last weekend, but is in better physical shape ahead of Sunday's game against Carlton, coach Damien Hardwick says.

Martin was clearly restricted at times against the Swans, collecting 23 disposals – his second-lowest tally this season – and having minimal impact in the Tigers' nine-point loss at the MCG.

The dynamic midfielder has been hampered by a lower back issue and Hardwick said the club would continue to manage the second-favourite for the Brownlow accordingly.

"I don't think many players are 100 per cent fit at the moment," Hardwick said.

"Dustin went in to the game, like a lot of other players, a little bit sore, but he played OK without playing to the usual standard we expect.

"But he'll be better this week and he's had a good week on the track thus far. He'll train today and hopefully we'll get a better result for both him and the team this week."

Martin's contract situation continues to be an ever-present issue, particularly after Richmond CEO Brendon Gale said the club would seek an answer from him and his management in the coming weeks.

The 25-year-old will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season and has put off contract talks with the Tigers until then.

Players will receive a 20 per cent pay rise this year after the new six-year CBA deal was officially announced on Tuesday.

"Dustin's had an incredible season for us thus far, so when I know (his decision) you'll know," Hardwick said.

"We've known all along that Dusty and his management are determined to make their decision in due course. It doesn't affect me one way or another … I'm prepared to wait as long as he needs to make a decision.

"That's his right as a player."

Ivan Maric stretches out at training on Wednesday. Picture: Getty Images

Hardwick listed Ben Lennon, Oleg Markov, Ivan Maric and Anthony Miles as the players in the selection mix for the game against the Blues.

Miles (32 disposals) continues to play consistent football in the VFL and will be under strong consideration, according to Hardwick.

"There'll probably be a couple of changes," Hardwick said.

"We've got some guys not playing to their highest level in the AFL at the moment, so we'll look at that more closely on Friday."