RICHMOND will be without superstar midfielder Dustin Martin for its danger game against Carlton on Sunday afternoon at the MCG after he was ruled out with soreness.

Tough onballer Jack Ross has been brought into the side as his replacement, with defender Ryan Garthwaite added to the list of emergencies.

Martin has been in superb form as he has helped drive the Tigers into fourth place on the ladder heading into round 21, having racked up at least 30 disposals and a goal in each of his past three games.

Shane Edwards and Martin (right) at training on Friday. Picture: AFL Photos

The 28-year-old would likely have been in contention for a second Brownlow Medal if not for a one-match suspension for elbowing Greater Western Sydney defender Adam Kennedy in the head in round three.

Carlton looms as a dangerous opponent, having won five of its eight games under caretaker coach David Teague, with two of those losses by under a goal and last week's defeat being a competitive outing against reigning premier West Coast.