The AFL Media team has listed its top candidates for 2016’s ‘breakout’ players to look for.
Which Crow has caught their eye?
Matt Crouch
Matt Crouch's ball-winning ability is well known around Adelaide. He's dominated through the midfield in countless SANFL games already and the 20-year-old showed last year that he has genuine ability at the elite level too.
He averaged 21 touches a game in his 17 matches last season but has made serious ground over the summer. He's improved his running and another pre-season of natural development in the gym has him stronger again. That increased running capacity has him better equipped to find uncontested possessions and his improved strength and maturity has seen him raise the bar significantly in the NAB Challenge.
He managed 26 disposals and six tackles on Sunday against Fremantle and the week before against West Coast he was again prolific with 24 disposals. With greater opportunity in the Crows' engine room, everything Crouch has done since last season suggests he'll become a key contributor in 2016.
Also read:
Crouch stands out
Matt's Fantasy attack
See AFL.com.au's full list of 'break out' players to watch for this year
