No.2 in the AFL Players' Top 50, brought to you by Bailey, is a smooth-mover with the rare capacity to play at his own pace.

2. Scott Pendlebury
Collingwood
Midfielder
AFL Player Rating: 2
Debut: 2006
Games: 175

Pendlebury took his game to another level in 2013, playing every match and averaging a career-high 29.9 possessions, third best in the AFL. The midfielder averaged career-high uncontested possessions and free kicks and led Collingwood in handballs, clearances, free kicks and contested possessions. His best game was against Adelaide (42 possessions, five tackles and two goals) and there were 10 games out of Collingwood’s 23 for the year where he had more than 30 touches.

Midfield coach Robert Harvey has had a profound effect on Pendlebury, who polled 21 Brownlow votes, was named an All-Australian for the fourth straight year and won his second Copeland Trophy.

Pendlebury’s leadership skills were rewarded when he was named club captain before the start of the 2014 season.

On his way to No.1? His peers think Scott Pendlebury could become the game's best. Picture: AFL Media



Strengths
Has two of football's three basic elements mastered because he wins the ball and uses it to his team's advantage. With the ball in hand, Pendlebury never appears flustered or rushed and always searches for space to allow him time to find the right option.

A true team man, he covers territory at both ends of the ground, working back into defence to support defenders and pushing forward to kick goals.

He rarely misses kickable goals and performs in big games.

Weaknesses
Still an inexperienced leader, the Collingwood captain will continue to refine his communication skills. He is one-sided to some extent but the left-footer never gets caught on his non-preferred side.

There are few weaknesses in his game, however, and having just turned 26, he is about to enter the prime years of his career.

What the players said
"The ultimate professional.” - Luke Ball

"His decision-making makes him one of the best midfielders in the game ... may become the game's best player.” - Nathan Jones

"When his team needs him most, that's when he comes to the fore ... and he's done it time and time again.” - Corey Enright

"A guy that can turn the game at any stage ... he's elite.” - Joel Selwood

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