Adelaide utility Riley Knight has followed Tom Doedee’s lead and embraced a leadership role with the Crows’ emerging talent.

The 25-year-old has yet to feature in the senior side this year, having only recently returned following an Achilles injury.

During rehabilitation, Knight was approached by reserves coach Heath Younie and asked if he could mentor the young players.

“He asked if I’d be interested working with the younger midfield group in reserves over the weeks I was injured,” Knight told The Optus Crows Show.

“It was really good, I was able to get in there and help out the younger guys coming through with structures, stuff on game day, that sort of thing

“It was a great avenue to keep connected with the group and feel fresh and rejuvenated when I came into the Club, knowing I’m driving the Club forward.” 

Doedee took on a similar responsibility with Adelaide’s young defenders in 2019 after rupturing his ACL.

Now back playing, Knight said he would continue to further his leadership skills.

“Matty Wright, who’s our forwards coach now, he took me in when I got to the Club,” Knight said.

“I also had Richard Douglas mentor me in the first couple of years… I think his style really helped me.

“He had a great connection with a lot of the younger guys but had the ability to challenge the older guys.

“That’s something I’ve tried to model my leadership on."

The Optus Crows Show airs this Sunday at 12pm on Channel 7 in Adelaide.

Interstate fans can catch the full episode on afc.com.au shortly after.