IT COULD not have been scripted any better. 

After 243 games for Richmond, the much-loved Brett Deledio requested a trade to Greater Western Sydney at the end of last season in the quest for success.

He has battled calf issues throughout this year, which means his 250th match will be against his old side in a preliminary final on Saturday at the MCG.

Over 90,000 fans are expected, the vast majority of which used to cheer Deledio's every disposal.

GWS assistant coach Mark McVeigh said Deledio's milestone will not be overlooked in the lead-up to the Giants' second preliminary final in two years.

"Brett's been outstanding for us. Even though he hasn't played a lot of games, he's brought a professionalism to our younger players that perhaps they wouldn't have seen before as well," McVeigh said.

"He's only added to what Stevie J has brought to our footy club and Heath Shaw and those older players.

"It's been a real pleasure to be a part of his career, late in his career. He deserves his 250 games and he deserves to play in front of a big crowd tomorrow and do really well."

Not only does Deledio have intimate knowledge of the Richmond line-up, he has also played the most games at the MCG (131) of any of his Giants' teammates.

GWS has played just two games at the MCG in the past two seasons, and only 11 in its six seasons in the AFL.

"I think his brain has been picked a little this week, and he's been terrific in that regard," McVeigh said.

"Brett's a quality person and I hope he plays really well tomorrow night."