RICHMOND midfielder Nathan Drummond's worst fears have been confirmed, with scans on Saturday confirming the youngster has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament.

The 20-year-old, who made his debut against Melbourne on Friday night, suffered the injury to his right knee after landing awkwardly in a marking contest just before half-time of his side's 32-point loss to the Demons.

Richmond football manager Dan Richardson confirmed the season-ending injury on Saturday night.

"Nathan has worked so hard to get his opportunity to play at AFL level, and it's extremely unfortunate that he will have to wait until next year to get another opportunity," Richardson told the club's website.

"He is a strong character, and we expect he will be diligent with his rehab program to give him the best chance of making a return."

Drummond collected five touches and two tackles before the injury.

The Mooroopna product was recruited with pick No.52 in last year's NAB AFL Draft and took out the Murray Bushrangers' best and fairest in the TAC Cup.