HOWLONG’s Anthony Miles says knowing his spot in the side isn’t secure is all the motivation he needs to get through another grueling AFL pre-season.
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The ball-winning inside midfielder has played 33 games at the Tigers since crossing over before the 2014 season from Greater Western Sydney, where he played 10.
Making Richmond’s senior list after being taken as a rookie makes Miles appreciate just how hard it is to make the top grade.
The 23-year-old played every game for the Tigers last season – 23 in total – but knows any form slump will see him dropped to the VFL.
“Personally I’d like to play every game for the year again,” Miles said.
“For me I still don’t feel my spot is solidified.
“I’d like to be able to get forward and kick more goals.
“So I’ll probably play my career on the edge, if that makes sense, and as a team hopefully we can be consistent enough to make the top four.”
Miles will start back with his teammates at training on Monday, but his time off has been anything but a holiday.
Miles has made sure he returns to the club in top shape by working on his running with his uncle Pat Scammell and cousin Jack during the Christmas break.
“You can’t go back underdone so you’ve got to do a fair bit while you’re away,” he said.
Miles finished fourth in Richmond’s best-and-fairest award in just his second season at the club.
He averaged 23.6 disposals and 11.5 contested possessions a match, was ranked equal 12th in the competition for clearances and 13th in contested possessions.
And, among his Tiger teammates, Miles was ranked No. 1 in handballs, clearances, centre clearances, stoppages and second for contested possessions.
But his successful season came at a cost, with Miles getting a ‘clean out’ on his shoulder at the end of the season.
“I’m feeling pretty good,” Miles said.
“It’s 100 per cent now.
“I was in a sling for a day and then they start the rehab.
“It helps when you’re doing it every day.”
The Tigers play their first NAB Challenge game on February 19 against Fremantle at Mandurah.
