Adam McPhee struggled with injury for much of the second half of last season but when he did play, Essendon supporters liked what they saw. McPhee's ranking slipped almost two points compared with his stellar 2004 season but that was simply a result of injury. Fit and in-form, Essendon fans are looking forward to McPhee again slotting in across half back.

2005
Games: 14
Kicks: 185
Handballs: 72
Marks: 113
Goals: 9

Fans' rating: 6.57 / 10

2004
Games: 21
Kicks: 237
Handballs: 125
Marks: 125
Goals: 15

Fan's rating: 8.53 / 10

What the fans say:

""Obviously sorely missed and not his usual self the games he did play. Want him back in 2006 in good form and injury free. Needs to put 2005 behind him and give the fans something the cheer for,"" Stuart Nixon.

""Started off the year in sensational form before struck down with injury. The team really missed his drive from defence, mobility, marking around the ground and general versatility. Hopefully the injury has been fixed and he will be raring to go for 2006. A fit and firing McPhee could make all the difference to the team in 2006,"" Paul Fisher.

""It must have been very frustrating to have such an originally unknown injury. The start of the season was great from Adam always reliable. Hopefully we see some fantastic form from him come next season,"" Krystle Williams.

""Freo must rue the day they lost Adam. Athletic, reliable, tough, competitive and classy. There are not many players in the competition you could apply all of those adjectives to. Hopefully an injury-free 2006 will see Adam return to the stunning form of 2004, but in any case we can be sure we'll get 100% of what he's got to give. Sensational player and, along with Sean Wellman, one of the best draft deals ever!"" Terry Murphy.

""Year spoiled by injury. Played games affected by this injury but still managed to perform well. Great marking ability. Should have a great influence on how the club performs this year if injury free. Future leader of the club,"" Neil McInnes.

""Before injury he was still at his Crichton Medal best. A fantastic asset to the team and good to know he can play all around. Hopefully next season will be better in terms of injury, or lack there of,"" Victoria Manson.