WORD ON THE STREET

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick says an alleged extortion attempted involving two of his former players is “out of character” for the pair.

As first reported on 3AW Drive, police arrested a 33-year-old Thornbury man outside a South Melbourne tattoo parlour in relation to alleged extortion and threats.

That man is Jake King.

Hawthorn forward Tyrone Vickery, a former Richmond player, has also been assisting police with their investigation.

Speaking on Thursday, Hardwick said he was surprised by the developments.

“Those two guys have fought their backsides off for me, so, from what I know of them and their character – it’s certainly out of character for them,” he said.

“But I’ll let other people take care of that.”