ST KILDA midfielder Lenny Hayes believes there is still a spot in the Saints' line-up for Fraser Gehrig despite the forward structure working better without the G-Train on Friday night. And he also hinted this season was likely to be Saints veteran Max Hudghton's last.

Hayes said the forward set-up was better and less predictable without Gehrig after the Saints' 36-point win over Essendon.

"Fraser's been there almost every game over the last couple of years but I think the structure may have worked a little bit better," Hayes said. "I think we've struggled a little bit with the three up there … I think it just needs a bit of tinkering there, whether (Nick Riewoldt) pushes up the ground a bit more.

"I think it worked a little bit better, it wasn't as predictable."

Hayes said ruckman Steven King is in some doubt to play next week because of back spasms, adding Gehrig could return to the forward line to free up Justin Koschitzke to play in the ruck. Michael Gardiner is a chance to return following a calf injury.

Hudghton's effort on Essendon's Matthew Lloyd — the defender held Lloyd to only seven kicks and one behind — drew praise from coach Ross Lyon. Hayes also praised Hudghton as "a superstar".

"He was brilliant, Max is a freak. He's been crook during the week and it was just a great effort. He doesn't get enough credit," he said.

"I could count on one hand the times he's been beaten, I reckon, since I've been at the club. He's amazing, he just does what's required, he hardly gets any kudos and he doesn't look for it."

He hinted that Hudghton would retire this year.

"This year, he hasn't been beaten at all and he's sensational and we're going to miss him when he goes. The way he's playing, he could go on again but Max is building houses and making money elsewhere, so this could be his last year."

Essendon's predominantly red alternative jumper seemed to clash with the Saints' traditional guernsey. An AFL spokesman admitted the league was aware of the clash, saying, "We know it can be difficult, we are aware it could be better", but said Essendon's red jumper and white away shorts were the best option.