The stats

AFL games: 22

Disposals per game: 18.9

Marks: 6

Kicks: 12.6

Tackles: 2.6

Total goals: 19

Review

Gunston was one of only six Hawks to play all 22 games this season.

Yet despite featuring in every game, the 25-year old endured an inconsistent year with his form wavering from week to week.

But a mid-season change of ends which saw Gunston playing as a defender, the goal kicker found a new way to make a positive influence for his side.

His ability in defence was highlighted in Round 18 against Fremantle, when he registered a career-high 35 disposals, eight marks, five inside 50s and a goal in the 52-point win.

Gunston averaged 23.9 disposals over the last seven rounds in his new role.

His ability to read the ball in the air and then kick start counter-attacks from defence has left Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson with a dilemma of where to play Gunston in 2018 and beyond.

A word from: Adem Yze

“Obviously ‘Gunners’ finished the second half of the year down back, which is a big plus for him. 

“It was obviously brought about by injuries mainly but it was a little bit two-fold, with his form being a bit up and down at the start of the year as a forward. He probably wasn’t as consistent as what he normally is.

“So, it was probably a win-win for everyone, that he could try something different by going down back but then, in the end, I think we stumbled across a really good option for us to go down back with the ball use, run and marking ability that he provides off half-back. 

“So, moving forward, it’ll just be a question of which end we need him most but it’s certainly a massive positive that he can do both.”

Read: Brendan Whitecross' season in review