Tom Lynch is a confirmed starter for Adelaide’s clash with Richmond at the MCG on Friday night.

After suffering a side strain injury against Greater Western Sydney in Round 11, the forward was expected to return last week before getting a head knock at training which stopped him lining up against West Coast.

Crows Senior Coach Don Pyke told reporters on Thursday that Lynch had recovered well and would named for his first game in five weeks.

“Lynchy will play, he is available and he will come back in,” Pyke said.

“It was disappointing last week, he did all the work over the break and to get that little head knock but he’s fine.

“Tom is a fantastic link player for us. That space that exists out there to roam and connect really well for us, so it’s great to have him back and he’s a great player.”

Pyke also said there was no doubt that Matt Crouch would face Richmond, despite suffering a minor hand injury during Adelaide’s 10-point win over West Coast in Round 15.

“He’s got a little bit of a knock in his hand, he’s got a little crack in there, but it’s going to be fine,” Pyke said.

“It’s only a minor, little fracture, it’s not really affecting him.

“I spoke to him this morning and he’s fine.

“He trained all week. He’s going to be a little sore, but he’s not concerned at all.”

Pyke said the game against ladder leaders Richmond would be a great test for the Crows.

“Richmond are clearly the benchmark of the comp, they are playing really strong footy,” Pyke said.

“We need to plan for how they play and make sure we come with a really clear, and simple, view as to how we can beat them.

“They play with a high pressure, high intensity focus around the ball, we’ve got to win our share.”