Cale Hooker could become one of the AFL's leading goal kickers in 2015 according to Essendon’s all-time leading goal kicker Matthew Lloyd.

Hooker was an All-Australian defender in 2014, but was moved in to attack half way through this season when Jake Carlisle went down with an ankle injury. 

The move proved a masterstroke with Hooker ending the season with 21 goals from ten games in the forward half.

“With Cale Hooker, you’ve probably got the best key defender in the game, so it’s a tough one when you’re having to play him forward,” Lloyd said. 

“With the list as it is now, unless someone gets brought in, Cale has to stay forward with Joe Daniher. 

“Hooker is capable of kicking 50 goals next year with a full season in the forward line.” 

Joe Daniher led Essendon’s goal kicking with 34 majors from his 22 games.

Lloyd said time in the ruck probably prevented Daniher from kicking an even bigger return.

“Joey’s got a fair bit of work still to do,” Lloyd said.

“He probably just tailed off as the season went on, he probably got a bit tired with his ruck work as well.

“I think settling him down as a permanent forward next year would really help him.”