Toby McLean played 19 games in 2017.

In a terrific third season for the midfielder, McLean’s best game came in Round 16 against Adelaide. McLean was the Bulldogs’ best player on the night with eight clearances, three inside-50’s, eight tackles and a career-high 32 possessions.

In Round 14, in the Bulldogs’ one-point victory over North Melbourne, McLean was among the best with six clearances, three inside-50s and 13 score involvements.

Stat that mattered:

Spending more time in the midfield in 2017, McLean averaged 22.4 disposals, significantly up on his 2016 season (17.3).

What they said.

“I thought I had a big improvement personally this year.

“Moving into the midfield and getting more involved around the ball, it’s probably become my number one role this year, coming second to being a forward. I’ve really enjoyed it.

“I worked on my fitness in pre-season so I could run out games to the last quarter and also on my strength, hitting the gym quite hard and trying to get bigger and stronger.”