Richmond midfielder Jayden Short has been ruled out of Sunday's season-defining clash with Melbourne after initially being included in coach Andrew McQualter's squad.

Short was thought to have recovered from a hamstring injury suffered against the Brisbane Lions a number of weeks ago, having been named in Richmond's squad for this weekend's all-important bout at the MCG.

However, it's not to be, as Short was removed from the Tigers' selected squad, announced by Richmond on Friday morning.

The midfielder has been replaced by rebounding defender Hugo Ralphsmith.

Also included as part of the Tigers' initial squad are forward Noah Cumberland and ruckman Samson Ryan, while the Demons are considering the returns of ruckman Brodie Grundy, defender Michael Hibberd, and forwards Charlie Spargo, Harrison Petty, and James Harmes.

Richmond and Melbourne's final selected sides will be announced at 5:00 PM (AEST) on Friday.