Nick Riewoldt was the obvious choice to captain St Kilda for a record 10th AFL season in 2015, but the Saints star hopes that decision isn’t as clear cut next year.

Riewoldt, 32, has led the Saints in 182 games and will overtake the mark set by Danny Frawley, who captained the side for nine seasons.

He heads up a leadership group that also contains Leigh Montagna, Jarryn Geary, Sean Dempster, David Armitage, Jack Newnes and Maverick Weller – with the latter two players new additions this year.

The champion forward said it was an easy discussion when coach Alan Richardson broached the subject of leading the club for another season, but can see the time coming when he’ll hand over the reins.

“Hopefully next year we’re in a position to have a different discussion – I think that would be really helpful for the football club,” Riewoldt said on Tuesday.

“I’m committed to the role now, for next year or as long as I need to be in it, but I think it’s really healthy that Newnesy and Mav have come into the group. Hopefully next year there will be another couple of guys step in.

“That’s what we’re trying to build and develop – just because you step away from a role doesn’t change anything.

“I think it would be great to have multiple options. In an ideal world you’ve got a real range of leaders and you’re spoilt for choice.

“We’re getting closer to that.”

Riewoldt skippered the St Kilda teams that made grand finals in 2009 and 2010 and admitted the motivation to lead was different – but no less powerful – with the Saints currently in a rebuilding phase.

“It’s more about trying to make each year count and this year presents as exciting a challenge as I’ve had at any stage,” he said.

“I’ve clearly been a part of some really successful teams and the motivation there is a little bit different to what it is now. Now it’s about leading strongly for a young group to make sure that we can continue our climb up the ladder.”

The addition of Weller caps a stunning career resurgence for the 22-year-old who was discarded by Gold Coast before being thrown a lifeline by the Saints, who put him on their rookie list last season.

“He’s been acknowledged by his teammates as someone who lives and breathes the way that we want players to prepare and perform,” Richardson said.

“He’s quite strong with his feedback and is a player who has earned the respect of his teammates.”