Nick Riewoldt’s sparkling start to 2016 has not caught Leigh Montagna by surprise, with the dual All Australian suggesting the challenge of altering roles has continued to stoke the competitive fires within the St Kilda skipper.

The six-time Trevor Barker Award winner has thrived in a different role this season, splitting his time between a wing and deep inside 50.

Riewoldt, 33, has already produced a couple of best on ground performances and is averaging 20.0 possessions (highest in his career) and 11.3 marks (most in the AFL). He has also kicked 18.5, impacting the scoreboard at important times when he’s pushed forward.

Friday Microscope: Round 8 v West Coast

Montagna says Riewoldt’s high level of professionalism and competitiveness has ensured the five-time All Australian has continued to produce such a high level of contribution on a weekly basis.

“It probably hasn’t surprised me to any great extent because I’ve played 15 years with him like this. He’s just so competitive,” Montagna told Fox Sports’ AFL Tonight on Thursday.

“I think the challenge of going into the midfield is something he set his mind to in the pre-season. He’s had to go forward at times when we’ve needed him to and he’s just done what he’s always done.

“He’s still been ultra-professional, ultra-consistent and ultra-competitive, it’s no surprise that he’s forms been what it is.”

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