The AFLPA today announced the Western Bulldogs nominees in the AFLPA MVP Awards. The Club’s nominees are as follows.

Robert Murphy

After a difficult off-season for the Bulldogs, Robert Murphy stepped into the vacant captaincy role with ease. Patrolling the half-back flank, Murphy’s leadership has seen the Dogs soar from the bottom six into the finals for the first time since 2010. The 33-year-old keeps getting better with age, averaging a career-high 22 disposals per game.

Luke Dahlhaus

The Bulldogs have been one of the surprise packets of 2015, and one of the key reasons for their rise has been the season of Luke Dahlhaus. The dynamic 23-year-old leads the club for disposals and contested possessions, ranks second at the club for tackles and has kicked 16 goals. His standout game was against the Cats in round 16 where he collected 37 disposals, 13 contested, laid seven tackles and kicked a goal.

Easton Wood

The 26-year-old defender has enjoyed his best season as a Dog, ranking first at the club for contested marks and one percenters. His intercept marking and the ability to rebound off half-back have been pivotal in the Dogs’ success. His attributes were highlighted in the Bulldogs’ round 13 win over the Saints, where he took 13 marks and had 22 touches, including six rebound 50s.

How the players choose the MVP

Stage one: Every player on an AFL list selects his three most valuable teammates. The top three vote-getters at each club are then listed as options in the second stage of voting.

Stage two: Every AFL player votes via a 3-2-1 vote systems for the Most Valuable Player of this season. Players are forbidden from voting for teammates during this stage.