RICHMOND has lost David Astbury and Brandon Ellis to injuries for Friday night's big match against Geelong at the MCG.

Tigers coach Damien Hardwick expected to make three or four changes after last week's upset loss to North Melbourne.

Daniel Rioli was a chance to return after being dropped to the VFL.

According to Richmond's website the pair are likely to miss just one week each, with Astbury listed as 'suffering a minor hamstring injury and Ellis a minor groin injury'.

"This time of year, the fatigue factor starts to set in and bodies start to break down a bit," Hardwick told richmondfc.com.au.

"We're hoping at this stage it's just the one week."

Geelong are set to welcome back Gary Ablett after he serving a one-week suspension for striking.