Essendon skipper Jobe Watson has been named the league’s Best Captain at the 30^th AFL Player’s Association Most Valuable Player Awards.

Watson finished at the head of an impressive field, with Geelong captain Joel Selwood and Fremantle skipper Matthew Pavlich finishing second and third respectively.

Senior coach James Hird said the accolade is just reward for the 27 year old, who showed great leadership throughout the Bombers season.

“Jobe is an outstanding leader of the Essendon Football Club, and for his colleagues to not only recognise that but vote him the league’s best captain is fantastic to see,” Hird said.

“I believe a leaders character is tested when adversity comes knocking. It’s no secret we endured a disappointing end to the season, but Jobe to his credit always led by example.”

Watson’s outstanding form this season was reinforced after he finished runner-up in the Most Valuable Player Award to Gary Ablett.

The Gold Coast captain claimed a record fourth Leigh Matthews Trophy after polling 788 votes. Watson received 602 votes with Richmond’s Trent Cotchin third with 495.