St Kilda coach Ross Lyon has backed key forward Justin Koschitzke in the wake of last weekend's surprise AFL loss to Port Adelaide.

Koschitzke returned from suspension and did not kick any goals in the match, and dropped a couple of marks at key moments in the last quarter.

He will need to improve quickly and become a crucial player for the Saints' attack, given the extended absence of captain Nick Riewoldt, who is recovering from hamstring surgery.

But Lyon said Koschitzke has a strong playing record and added there is no replacing Riewoldt, one of the game's best forwards.

Lyon also said the Saints are yet to decide whether to recall Jason Gram or Farren Ray from injury.

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