The prospect of following a similar path to that taken by Anthony Miles is driving new Richmond recruit Jacob Townsend.

Miles, who was starved of opportunities in two years with Greater Western Sydney, is thriving with the Tigers.

He’s become a key member of Richmond’s midfield over the past couple of seasons due to his impressive contested-ball-winning ability and strong work ethic.

Townsend, a strongly-built, tough, inside midfielder, managed only 28 senior games in four years with the Giants, before being picked up by Richmond in the AFL’s recent trade period.

VIDEO: Jacob Townsend highlights

“I think there’s a better opportunity for me to play more senior football here,” he told ‘Roar Vision’.

“As everyone knows, there’s a fair bit of top-end talent up there at the GWS . . .

“And, talking to Anthony Miles, he’s enjoyed his time here . . .

“He was playing some pretty good footy up there (GWS), but at each club some players just don’t get the opportunity that they would like, or they probably deserve. 

“He thought his career was up, but he went off and got really fit, and then the Tigers gave him a chance.

“And, he took that with both hands and finished top four in the B & F in his second year. 

“It’s probably also credit to the Tigers themselves. It shows that if you get put into a club, with the correct training environment and standards, then anyone can come out and play how he’s played the last two years.

“So, I’m really happy to be here at the Tigers.”

Townsend described his playing style as “nothing too fancy” . . .

“I’m not that quick, or can’t jump that high, so I just like to go out there and try my best,” he said.

“I like to put a tackle on here and there. That’s basically what you can expect coming from me . . .

“I’ve spoken to a few of the (Richmond) coaches and they’ve said bring what you bring every week . . . Go out there and play your role for the team, whether that’s tagging someone, or playing normal footy.  “Helping out Trent Cotchin as well, because he obviously gets tagged a fair bit, being the superstar that he is. 

“That’s basically what they told me my job was for the team.”

The 22-year-old is eagerly awaiting the start of pre-season training with the Tigers.

“I can’t wait to get started and stuck into training . . . It’ll be good,” he said.

“Get out there on the training track and get taught a fair few things off some of the boys here.”