THE 40-MAN All Australian squad will be named on September 2, with the final team to be announced on Tuesday, September 16. afl.com.au reporters take a look at the key candidates from each club and some of the outside chances.
SYDNEY SWANS
Lance Franklin Wasn't Buddy supposed to destroy the Swans? Hardly. He leads the AFL with 61 goals, has shown impressive commitment to the defensive side of his game and has helped the Swans be on the cusp of the minor premiership. He's a lock.
Josh Kennedy Once again among the competition leaders for clearances and contested possessions, he is averaging a career-best 29 disposals and is right in the mix for this year's Brownlow Medal. Lock him in too.
Luke Parker This has been a breakout year for the 21-year-old. He is averaging 25.5 touches and just under a goal a game. But, considering the AFL's midfield depth, he may need to do it all again next year to make the final team.
Nick Malceski If the running defender makes the team, as he surely will, it would have to rank among the most popular selections in recent memory. In the 10th season of an injury-plagued career, he has played every game and averaged a career-best 24 possessions while setting the Swans up with his penetrating boot and run off half-back.
Ben McGlynn Playing predominantly through the midfield for the first time, he has been a raging success story. He has missed four games and is now injured, which could count against him, but his intensity, tackling and skill should have him right on the cusp of selection.
Jarrad McVeigh Surely one of the competition's most consistent players, he has enjoyed another excellent year filling a variety of roles. Some of his stats are marginally down on last year's All Australian and best and fairest-winning season, but he would still be a worthy squad member.
Nick Smith A no-fuss defender, he gets asked to subdue the League's best small forwards every week and is rarely beaten. Starting to earn the plaudits he deserves outside of Sydney, a first All Australian jumper would be a deserving reward for the 26-year-old.
Ted Richards All Australian in 2012, Richards was slightly down on that form last season, but has roared back to his best this year. He could get pipped at the post, but would look right at home in the squad at least.
Click here to read the full list of clubs' All Australian contenders from afl.com.au.
