Essendon’s Kyle Langford is enjoying a career-best season in 2023.
The 26-year-old has booted an impressive 45 majors so far this year, placing him equal seventh in the Coleman Medal race. His best goal tally before this campaign was just 15 in 2019.
As well as his ability to hit the scoreboard, Langford has dished them out as he sits equal-sixth in goal assists averaging 0.9 a game.
Langford was the crucial piece behind Essendon’s one-point win over West Coast on Sunday as he booted five goals including the match-winner and David King believes he’s mounting a genuine argument to be named an All-Australian.
“Langford kept doing what he's been doing all year,” King said on SEN Whateley.
“He's just become a cold, in-your-face, ‘I will defeat you’, style forward.
“He’s just a basic lead-up forward, he’s a big frame, he’s not overly quick, but gee he’s hard to play on.
“He had full control of Elliot Yeo and Yeo did some really special things late in terms of some of the defensive actions.
“But Langford … Brad Scott put on the radar in the pre-game with Jason Dunstall that he should be in the All-Australian team.
“It's hard to argue when you look at what he's been able to do this season.”
As well as Langford, King heaped praise on midfielder Darcy Parish who was significant against the Eagles with 33 disposals, one goal, nine clearances and 13 score involvements.
King doesn’t believe the 26-year-old gets the plaudits he deserves.
“No one really gives Darcy Parish the love he should get,” King said.
“I thought he was enormous in terms of providing avenues for Essendon to score.
“In the end, they were just too good (for West Coast).”
Essendon’s finals hopes are still alive as they sit 12th and hold a 10-10 record.
The Bombers face North Melbourne, GWS (away) and Collingwood in the last three rounds of the home and away season.
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