AHEAD of the 2016 Virgin Australia AFL All Australian Awards, AFL.com.au reporters have voted for their best performers of the year.
With the backline settled, there were 19 midfielders to choose from in the 40-man squad and all received at least one nomination.
Most unlucky to miss were Hawthorn star Sam Mitchell and Collingwood's Adam Treloar, who were each backed by four reporters.
Ruckman Max Gawn was the only specialist ruckman named in the extended squad and was one of two unanimous picks.
The forward line and interchange will be revealed at 3pm.
CENTRES
Dan Hannebery (Sydney Swans)
In line for his third All Australian selection, the star Swan ranked No.3 in the AFL for total disposals and didn't miss a game. Fourth in the AFL for inside 50s (114), few argued against the courageous runner.
Josh Kennedy (Sydney Swans)
Ranked No.2 in the AFL for clearances behind Carlton's Patrick Cripps (who was not available for selection as he was not in the 40-man squad), Kennedy was the popular pick in the centre. Missed just one game and ranked No.1 for contested possessions.
Andrew Gaff (West Coast)
Without doubt the hardest position to pick. There were strong cases for Luke Shuey, Jack Steven and Adam Treloar here, and one push for Tom Scully given the preference for a genuine wingman. Late season form got Gaff over the line. Ranked No.1 for uncontested possessions (22.5 a game).
FOLLOWERS
Max Gawn (Melbourne)
The easiest position to fill, given Gawn's clearly superior season and the fact he is only ruck specialist named in the 40-man squad. Played every game and ranked No.1 for hit-outs (42.2 a game).
Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong)
A no-brainer to place the outstanding midfielder of the season on the ball. As dangerous as any player given his ability to win contested ball (ranked No.5) and send the ball inside 50 (ranked No.1). Kicked 23 goals from the midfield.
Rory Sloane (Adelaide)
A near unanimous selection, Sloane was hard to position. Some had him on-ball, other had him on a wing or even the interchange. But he is a star and deserves a prominent place in this team. His mix of attack and defensive pressure should guarantee him his first All Australian selection.
