Richmond star to make comeback in rare VFL appearance

After being restricted to 13 games last year, the 32-year-old is yet to play a game this season following an achilles injury.

But Richmond coach Adem Yze believes the club has learnt valuable lessons on how to manage their star veteran.

"There always is, with the talent he's got and the leadership he provides," Yze said of the temptation to bring Prestia straight back into the AFL.

"Last year, you could see how important he was when he came in and we probably did it the wrong way and he missed six weeks. We've got to learn from that.

"If he gets through, he'll be available the week after. 

"We're playing the long game with him.

"I'm not sure the last time he's played VFL, but he's bought into that."

During Prestia's absence, the triple premiership player has taken a great interest in mentoring Tigers young guns Sam Lalor and Josh Smillie.

Rebuilding Richmond have defied grim pre-season predictions to already win three games this year.

Despite Essendon coming off a 91-point smashing by Western Bulldogs last Saturday night, the Bombers will start as warm favourites to beat the Tigers.

Richmond will be without captain Toby Nankervis (managed), veteran forward Tom Lynch (concussion), star defender Noah Balta (court-imposed curfew) and former best-and-fairest winner Jayden Short (calf).

Samson Ryan is back to take on ruck duties, with Maurice Rioli Jnr and Campbell Gray also recalled.

"We're going to be a really young side, on a big stage, which is an awesome opportunity," Yze said.

"I sat in the forward line meeting and it felt like I was in a creche.

"It's hard to fill Lynchy's shoes ... they've just got to share the load.

"They're young but it will be exciting."

Essendon's Jade Gresham and Matt Guelfi are back from injuries and hard-running teen defender Angus Clarke will debut on the big stage.

Dylan Shiel, Saad El-Hawli and Archer Day-Wicks have been dropped.