New St Kilda recruit Dan Butler has credited some young Tigers who starved him of first team action but remains confident about his new direction at the Saints.
After debuting in Richmond's drought-breaking 2017 premiership season, the small forward went on to play 45 games and contribute 53 goals, but achieved just seven senior berths in 2019.
Butler's appearance on SEN Breakfast Tuesday produced claims he was sold on the future direction of the Saints after meeting with staff and watching the new recruits walk in the door during the trade period.
"I had a couple of meetings with the list manager Gags (James Gallagher) and met Ratts (new senior coach Brett Ratten) as well," Butler said.
"It was probably the second half of the year where I knew I was out of contract at the end of this year and obviously wasn't getting the opportunity I would have liked at AFL level.
"Towards the end of the season was when I really had to make a decision."
Entering a new pre-season for the 2020 campaign, however, Butler is particularly keen on getting to work with the new arrivals as well as those in a similar position to himself.
"I reckon (Jade) Gresham's a fair gun; I love watching him play. Matty Parker and Jack Lonie and (Max) King, who's going to be a star," Butler said.
"I'm really looking forward to playing alongside them and some of the new recruits; Brad Hill and the likes as well."
