Two players renowned for their hard attack at the ball, tough nature and desire to win any contest, Mark Johnson and Mark Baguley share many similar characteristics.

Mark Johnson was elevated to the Club’s senior list in 1999 after two solid years for the Essendon Reserves. He would cement his position in the side in the following years after throwing off some serious injury problems.

Between 2000 and 2008, the defender would prove just how valuable a footballer he was. Aside from his tough nature, Johnson also demonstrated a great football brain and provided valuable run off the backline. He was an integral part of the 2000 Premiership team playing on the highly skilled Jeff Farmer.

Johnson also won the Crichton Medal in 2002 after polling 312 votes from 19 of the 24 matches in which he played. He led the Club for tackles and inside 50s in 2002.

Mark Baguley would take a different route in beginning his career at Essendon.

The astute defender made a name for himself in the local leagues playing for Langwarrin until joining Frankston in 2009 as a 21-year old. After only three seasons with Frankston, Baguley caught the eyes of Essendon selectors and was drafted as a mature age rookie in the 2012 draft.

Baguley quickly became an important part of the Club’s back six, with his courage on and off the ball a major strength in his game. He was so impressive that he was elevated off the rookie list mid season.

The 28-year old made a real name for himself over the last two years, where his tackling, ability to rebound 50 and shut down some of the best opposition forwards in the game reliably has proven a real benefit to the entire team.

Both demonstrate great qualities, both are assets to the team, but you can only pick one. Who is your pick?

Here are both players’ stats at the same time of their careers.