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3. Joel Selwood

Geelong

Midfielder

Last year's ranking: 3 (no change)

Official AFL Player Rating: 8

Debut: 2007

Games: 184

NAB AFL Fantasy value: $603,000

Selwood has consistently been a star in his eight seasons at the elite level, his ball-winning ability, courage and outstanding leadership making him one the game’s most respected players.

On several occasions last season, his efforts were the difference between victory and defeat for Geelong.

Selwood played all 24 games and finished the year – his third as captain – first for the club for handballs, tackles, inside 50s and hard-ball and loose-ball gets, third for kicks and fourth for handballs received. He averaged one goal a game.

He was recognised with his third club best and fairest award (second straight) and named All Australian for the fourth time (the last two seasons as skipper).

He also led the club's Brownlow Medal tally with 21 votes and captained Australia's International Rules Series win over Ireland in Perth in November.

Selwood is a fierce competitor who thrives in contested situations. Geelong coach Chris Scott has described him as the consummate team player.

"Joel decides that something needs to be done and he is going to take the whole team with him."

Selwood played junior football for Sandhurst and the Bendigo Pioneers in the TAC Cup competition and was the No. 7 pick in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft. His debut AFL season (2007) saw him win the NAB AFL Rising Star award and the first of three flags.

Who's next? Check out the rest of the AFL Players' Top 50 as they are revealed