While Richardson remains confident the former Sydney midfield ace will be a valuable addition for the Saints, it remains unclear when Hannebery will return as he deals with leg problems.

The bad news about Hannebery follows the recurrence of Dylan Roberton's heart issue in a pre-season game, prompting him to sit out this season.

Key forward Paddy McCartin is also sidelined with another concussion.

There is some good news for the Saints, with four-time club best and fairest winner Jack Steven returning from mental health issues for Sunday's season opener against Gold Coast.

But the news about Hannebery is a significant setback, given he joined the Saints on a five-year deal and was added to their leadership group.

The Saints said early last month that Hannebery's hamstring issue was minor.

But he did not play in their two pre-season games and Richardson now is more pessimistic about Hannebery's short-term prognosis.

Asked if Hannebery had a calf or hamstring issue, Richardson told SEN: "It's a good question and the reality is it's all of the above."

He said that whenever Hannebery tries to build his training load, his legs are not coping.

"He's had two years where he just hasn't been able to put in the work," Richardson said.

"He's gone out and played without great 'prep' because he's been able to do that for a fair while, he's a real warrior.

"I reckon it's caught up with him ... to some extent, he needs to be rebuilt."

Richardson is unsure whether Hannebery will be ready to play by round four.

"That's going to take a while," he said.

While Hannebery's injury woes are worse than they anticipated, Richardson remains optimistic that the onballer will be a major asset for the Saints.

"We think overall he's going to be enormous for our group," Richardson said.

Australian Associated Press