Players who can single-handedly influence a game, players who can read the play with ease and others who can find another gear when the game is in the balance.

These AFL stars are the reason why the sport is the most loved and most watched in Australia.

It is the reason why thousands of people across the country go to games each week, myself included.

Here is my top 10 most exciting players in the AFL: 

1. Gary Ablett

The bald-headed marvel is one of the greatest players to play the game.

He is the player everyone wants on their team, the player who can kick goals and run rings around his opponents.

There is nothing the man can’t do.

2. Dane Swan

My friend Dane Swan has to be one of my favourite players.

He may be a little unconventional but the tattooed magpie can break lines and kick goals.

Take Anzac Day for example, when the game was there to be won, Swan stood up.

3. Scott Pendlebury

The Magpies captain has to be one of the coolest and calmest players in the AFL.

Pendlebury knows how to find the ball and knows how to use the ball.

His influence on a game is exciting to watc. 

4. Joel Selwood

The courageous Cat inspires his team like no other.

He puts his body on the line and is not afraid to win the contested ball.

The former Bendigo boy is no doubt one of Geelong’s favourite sons. 

5. Patrick Dangerfield

Dangerfield is an excitement machine.

Can burst through packs, run all day and can kick goals from any angle.

The dynamic Crows player has a big future ahead of him. 

6. Lance Franklin

Despite the drama that constantly surrounds Buddy this season he is still one of the most talented players in the AFL.

His controversial move from Hawthorn to Sydney might be taking a toll but he is one player you can’t take for granted.

Buddy will always get people talking. 

7. Jarryd Roughead

Roughy isn’t fancy or flamboyant he just gets the job done.

For years he was in the shadow of Buddy Franklin but times of changed.

Teams are now realising how powerful the forward is.

8. Nathan Fyfe

Nat Fyfe is one of Fremantle’s most talented players.

His hunger for the ball is intoxicating and is fast becoming one of the best players in the competition.

9. Chad Wingard

The Port Adelaide youngster had a breakout year in 2013, winning the best and fairest and becoming an All-Australian.

Wingard can make something out of nothing. 

10. Jeremy Cameron

The Greater Western Sydney forward is deadly accurate in front of goals.