Influential. Adjective - having great influence on someone or something. Origin - late 16th century (referring to astral influence): from medieval Latin influentia.
The above definition is from the Oxford Dictionary. But in terms of AFL matches, what exactly does influential mean, and who are the league's most influential players?
ESPN.com.au defines influential in an AFL context as players who step up in big moments, who genuinely influence results, who can help halt momentum when a match is slipping away, and produce their best footy when the heat is at its hottest. Not accumulators or consistently solid performers - those who you want in your team, in big moments, and know they'll get the job done no matter the situation.
So, who are the AFL's most influential players?
ESPN columnists including Josh Jenkins, Nick Riewoldt and Jude Bolton and editorial staff members Niall Seewang and Jake Michaels have settled on a list of 10 players who make up our inaugural most influential list, starting at No. 10.
10. Josh Kennedy (West Coast)
Why? "In an era of multi-pronged forward lines, Kennedy is a throwback to previous decades as a key forward who can win a game off his own boot. His teammates look to him at almost every opportunity, and his marking, athleticism, presence and kicking ability make him an almost perfect power forward." - Niall Seewang
9. Nic Naitanui
Why? "He's lucky to average a dozen touches a game but when he is putting on his acrobatic ruck clinics in the centre bounce, the Eagles are hard to contain. His touch and connection with Priddis, Shuey and others mean the Eagles almost always win clearances. He is to WA footy what Betts is to SA." - Josh Jenkins
8. Max Gawn
Why? "Gawn isn't just the league's most dominant tap ruckman, he's a contested marking monster and a goalkicking threat up forward too. Beneath the goofy grin, tumbling beard and quirky personality lies a competitive beast who should be even more influential this year after the AFL banned third man-up in ruck contests." - Niall Seewang
7. Eddie Betts
Why? "There may be more consistent or elite players around but Betts has been the best at his position for more than a decade and his move to Adelaide has catapulted him into conversations alongside Tony Modra and Darren Jarman in SA folklore." - Josh Jenkins
6. Dustin Martin
Why? "An absolute bull who can single-handedly win a match off his own boot. His strength is just about unrivalled in the league. A superb one-on-one player who is dangerous in any part of the ground." - Jake Michaels
5. Cyril Rioli
Why? "He may only pick up 15 disposals a match but every single one is damaging. Almost always has his opponent worrying what he's going to do next." - Jake Michaels
4. Nat Fyfe
Why? "People have short memories, but we have to remember Fyfe was a game-winning wrecking ball in 2015. He combines raw power and athleticism and when he's at his belligerent best, it seems like he's playing against kids. His marking power for a midfielder is remarkable." - Niall Seewang
3. Marcus Bontempelli
Why? "Even at 21 years of age, the Bont is truly influential. Doesn't need a lot of the football as he rarely wastes it. No doubt a future Bulldogs captain." - Jake Michaels
2. Lance Franklin.
Why? "Few ignite games like him. As good as Sydney are, they still look to Buddy for their spark. No one defines star power more than he." - Josh Jenkins.
1. Patrick Dangerfield.
Why? "He's the complete package - he's a phenomenal athlete and a great competitor who is remarkably consistent. He could genuinely play any position and embraces the big crowds, media attention and pressure." - Josh Jenkins.
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