Key defender Heath Grundy says the next month of football will give the Sydney Swans a good indication of where the team stands in the context of the season.

The Swans face back-to-back games at the MCG, against Richmond and Hawthorn, before having to reset for a Round 10 blockbuster against ladder leaders North Melbourne.

Then the team packs its bags for another interstate trip to the Gold Coast.

While a 6-1 record eases the pressure, Grundy believes a successful four weeks can really set up the rest of the season.

MATCH PREVIEW: Sydney v Richmond

“It takes the pressure off a little bit, but we just have to make sure we keep going,” Grundy said.

“We’ll get a good feel of where we’re at. It’s good to play against the best sides, you can really test yourself which is what we need to do.

“Hopefully we can hit our straps and get going.”

Richmond has won the past two clashes against the Swans and four of the past six, which have included two in Sydney (ANZ Stadium and SCG) and two in Melbourne (MCG).

Since Grundy’s first year at the Swans in 2006, several matches have been determined by less than 20 points.

COACHES CORNER: What is it about Richmond?

Despite sitting at opposite ends of the ladder, Grundy is wary of what Richmond can produce.

“I can’t think of a game over the last 10 or 12 years that I’ve been playing them that there hasn’t been a tight game against Richmond,” Grundy added.

“We know what we’re going to get from them, it’s going to be a contest for four quarters. We’re going to have to be on our best to come away with a win.”

In a boost for the visitors, Grundy may get his partner-in-crime back after Ted Richards was deemed fully fit and available for senior selection after overcoming a fractured eye socket.