Many would argue that Todd Goldstein was at the peak of his powers in 2015, but at 32 years of age, is it possible he’s playing the best football of his career in 2020?

The stats certainly suggest he’s around the mark.

While Goldstein had far and away his best season in terms of hit-outs in ’15, with 44 a game, it’s the other areas of his game that have stepped up a notch.

“I think I’m having a different year to 2015, but it’s probably been the most consistent, well-rounded season I’ve had,” he told 3AW.

“That year I was probably doing very well in the ruck, but I think my impact around the ground wasn’t quite as much as this year, which has been the pleasing aspect.”

Week in, week out, Goldstein has proven himself as an elite clearance player, alongside the likes of Lachie Neale, Patrick Cripps and Clayton Oliver.

In fact, he leads all comers for total clearances this year, with almost seven a game.

It’s easy to forget Goldstein stands at 201 centimetres tall, such is his presence when the ball goes to ground. He can often be seen roving his own taps, or dishing off quick hands to a running midfielder.

The North big man has averaged 16 disposals a match, and is athletic as they come, playing below 90 per cent game time just once in 2020.  

“It’s about me working on what my strengths are, and my strengths are once the ball hits the ground, being able to get involved and try and be that fourth midfielder,” Goldstein said.

“I think that’s what we’ve been able to take to another level this year.

“I’m working a lot with our midfield coaches Jarred Moore and Leigh Adams to try and make that a real strength of mine.”

Earning another All-Australian nod will be no easy task; Max Gawn and Nic Naitanui are among those in hot competition, but Goldstein will be first in line if he can continue his outstanding form.