OUT-OF-FAVOUR ruckman Ivan Maric looms as a likely replacement for Richmond big man Shaun Hampson in Friday night's clash against Port Adelaide after being withdrawn from the VFL on Sunday.

Hampson suffered a right knee injury in Saturday's clash against the Brisbane Lions, limping from the field in the final three minutes after landing awkwardly on his knee in a ruck contest. 

Given the Tigers' six-day break – and a five-day break for players pushing their case in the VFL – Maric was withdrawn on Sunday and could be called on to play his first AFL game in two months.

Maric, the Tigers' joint vice-captain, has been overtaken by Hampson this season after a back injury held him back in the early rounds.

He is yet to find his best form in the VFL and has not played at any level in two weeks given the Tigers' VFL bye in round 13.

Despite the short turnaround, Hampson was confident he would be fit to face the Power on Friday night.

He told AFL.com.au on Sunday morning he was unlikely to need a scan on his knee, and was optimistic about his chances of playing the Power in six days' time.

"It's not too bad," Hampson said.

"I just stirred up an existing injury, so it won't be an issue, I don't think.

"I just landed a bit awkwardly and stirred the medial up. The short break doesn’t help, but I think I'll be good."

The former Blue has been in career-best form, cementing himself as Richmond's No.1 ruckman over the past two months.

Meanwhile, fellow big man Mabior Chol succumbed to a left ankle injury in the VFL and was on crutches post-match with ice strapped around his lower leg.