More grounds were added to Leigh Montagna’s billing of Essendon forward Kyle Langford as “the most underrated star in the competition” on Sunday afternoon. 

Langford booted three goals against the Crows to bring his season tally to 32, now sitting equal-11th in the AFL in a career-best year to date. 

Renowned for his reliability from the set shot, Langford’s goalkicking accuracy of 64 per cent is good for third highest amongst the entire top 20 in the Coleman Medal race, providing in quality and quantity alike. 

Adding to his forward prowess, Langford also ranks in the competition’s top 10 for marks inside 50 and direct goal assists, proof of his impact as both a primary target and a link-up option when required.

After a hamstring injury hampered his 2022, Langford is now one of five Dons to have appeared in every game in 2023, only two away from equalling his highest number of outings in a season to date. 

Having experienced spells on the wing and as a high half-forward prior to this season, Langford’s versatility has also allowed him to fill voids up the ground when needed, even utilised as a relief defender on multiple occasions earlier in the season. 

The return of spearhead Peter Wright from injury paired with the presence of Sam Weideman has given welcome support for Langford in the Bombers’ forward mix, allowing him to flourish as an aerial target against the opposition’s third tall. 

With seven games left for the season, the 26-year-old will be a key factor as the Bombers build into a testing run home.