Experienced Richmond defender Troy Chaplin has emphasised the value to the Tigers’ team of Brett Deledio, who played a pivotal role in last Sunday’s nail-biting win against Collingwood at the MCG.

Deledio again proved his worth to Richmond, with 30 disposals, 13 marks, and two critical goals after he was isolated inside 50.

Since 2007, the Tigers have won just two of eight games without the 216-game veteran – both against the Brisbane Lions.

“He's a class player and I tend to think he doesn't get the credit he deserves outside the Club,” Chaplin said on SEN.

“To be the No.1 draft pick (in 2004) comes with a lot of expectation.  He is so important to us, and I think the weekend proves how valuable he is, because he can play through the middle, but then he can play one-out in the forward line.

“He kicked two clutch goals for us in that last quarter to keep us in the game and get us back on top.

“Along with the skipper as well, Trent Cotchin, I thought they both led extremely well and they were probably the catalysts for the win in the end.”