PADDY Ryder is expecting a few vocal ex-teammates this Saturday night as he faces former club Essendon for the first time.

Ryder crossed to the Power late last year, seeking a fresh start in Adelaide.

He remains in contact with several Bombers and expected a few cheeky text messages in the lead up to the game, particularly from Courtenay Dempsey and Jake Carlisle.

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Luckily though, Ryder said he now played alongside the most vocal player during his time at Windy Hill, Angus Monfries.

"I am a little bit [more nervous]; obviously it's a bit tough but I'll have a chat with Schulzy and boys like that who have come from other clubs and get some tips off them on how to approach it," Ryder said.

"I spent a lot of years there so I've got some mates and we keep in touch … [there might be] a bit of friendly banter.

"I've never had any issues with any of my teammates over the journey. I wouldn't have thought anything would be too sinister."

Ryder played his best game of the year last Sunday as the Power fell just three points short in Showdown XXXIX, booting three goals and collecting 15 disposals.

He was content with the impact he had, but is keen to bring that level of performance every week.

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It's taken him longer than the football world expected to show his strength in Port colours, although he's carried an Achilles injury for a large chunk of the season.

He still isn’t at 100 per cent but is now "on top" of the injury.

But Ryder believed he was making good progress this year in terms of settling into life in a new environment.

"The more training and the more involved I am with the team, I'm growing every day with the fellas," he said.

"Just building relationships and stuff like that – it takes a bit of time."