Matthew Lloyd has named his top 7 running half-backs in the AFL.
The Essendon great says there is a greater importance placed on that particular role in the modern game and wanted to highlight who he believes are the best in the position right now.
“On the weekend there were that many dynamic, running half-backs who were in the best two players in each game,” he said on Sportsday.
“It’s becoming that every club has to have a really high quality one.
“Andrew McLeod was the best I’ve seen and you see what (Changkuoth) Jiath did on the weekend and what (Nick) Blakey is doing. Even the older blokes like (Dayne) Zorko and (Scott) Pendlebury are going back there.
“This is my best seven running backs currently playing the game.”
Lloyd’s top 7 running half-backs:
7. Nick Blakey (Sydney)
“I’ve got him in front of Pendlebury, (Dan) Houston, (Sam) Docherty and Zorko.
“I’m a massive fan of Blakey.”
6. Jayden Short (Richmond)
“A best and fairest in a premiership year.
“Some might disagree with that, but I’ve got him at six.”
5. Daniel Rich (Brisbane)
4. Caleb Daniel (Western Bulldogs)
“I know Bailey Dale was the All-Australian last year, but I love the way Daniel plays the game.”
3. Christian Salem (Melbourne)
“He was brilliant through the finals series.”
2. Lachie Whitfield (GWS)
“I’m not sure how his season is going this year, but I love what he does.
“For his run, his carry and his foot skills are as good as anybody’s.”
1. Tom Stewart (Geelong)
“He’s the number one running defender in the game.”