Mike Sheahan’s bi-annual ‘Top 50’ always generates great discussion among the AFL community – and his most recent list, published in the Herald Sun on Wednesday, is no exception.

Matthew Leuenberger and Pearce Hanley have flown the flag for the Lions this season, after being selected at number 34 and 43 respectively ahead of the 2014 season.

It is the second that both players have appeared in Mike’s Top 50. Leuenberger was listed at number 46 in the lead-up to 2012, while Hanley’s outstanding 2013 season was rewarded with 34th spot at the end of last year.

Leuenberger was one of only two ruckmen to appear in the Top 50 – along with Fremantle giant Aaron Sandilands (8) – with Sheahan classifying the 25-year-old as the Lions’ “most important player”.

“(Leuenberger is) ready to flourish after an Achilles injury ruined his 2012 season,” Sheahan said.

“Tall, athletic, nimble, and getting better over his head.”

Hanley, meanwhile, has obviously caught the attention of the football world – including the Melbourne media – given his exciting style of play.

“He complements his great pace with nimble footwork and a huge sense of adventure. Love watching him play,” Sheahan said.

Sam Mayes also deserves a mention after being recognised by the respected football journalist as one of the Top 10 ‘Rising Stars’.

As always, there are plenty of great players who have been overlooked, and Sheahan can expect some strong feedback from fans who believe their team has been duded.

Lions fans have already taken to Twitter to express their displeasure at Tom Rockliff’s surprise omission, while his midfield partners-in-crime Daniel Rich and Jack Redden would have also surely come into serious consideration.