Brereton’s top 3 key forwards who’ve had the biggest impact in 2022

Hawthorn great Dermott Brereton has named the three key forwards he believes have had the biggest impact on the competition so far in 2022.

Brereton has been extremely impressed by Western Bulldogs spearhead Aaron Naughton, Coleman Medal leader Charlie Curnow and Richmond star Tom Lynch.

Carlton forward Curnow is leading the Coleman on 37 goals, with Lynch (31) and Naughton (29) not far behind.

“I think Aaron Naughton has had the most effect as a key forward,” Brereton told SEN’s The Run Home.

“Charlie Curnow has risen. I’d have him in the top three.

“I’d also have Tom Lynch, who didn’t play last week, but I think he’s been fantastic once again.

“Hasn’t got a big enough sample size to the 11-game mark, but I think Harry McKay’s right up there as well, which is wonderful for the Blues.”

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Curnow’s career is back on track after three injury-ravaged years.

The 25-year-old missed half of 2019, all of 2020 and almost the entire 2021 season due to multiple knee injuries.

“He’s been exceptional. He’s unbelievably good,” Brereton said of Curnow.

“He would be capable of being the No.1 key forward by himself in any other team.

“For the injury he’s had and come back from, I didn’t see his progress being this good this quick.

“I’m a huge fan of his, always have been. His ability to come back from that (injuries) and do what he’s done is extraordinary.”

In-form Curnow has kicked 10 goals in his last two games – six against Sydney and four against Collingwood last week.