Expect some consistency with the rookies the Saints take into 2018. Rowan Marshall looks an exciting prospect while Irishmen Ray Connellan and Darragh Joyce are in their first season. Nick O'Kearney and Nick Coughlan are in their second year on the rookie list and are yet to debut, but both have shown signs of promise.

Ray Connellan
This Irishman has serious speed. He has spent most of his time playing down back for Sandringham but played forward against Werribee last Sunday and was named in the best for his two-goal performance.

Nick Coughlan
Injuries have hurt the defender in 2017. He is currently sidelined with a hamstring strain while a stress fracture in his right foot in the lead-up to the season affected his preparation. The 193cm backman is good in the air.

Darragh Joyce
A tall defender, Joyce is a little behind Connellan in terms of picking up the game. The club is not flooded with young tall backmen so if Joyce can develop, he would help fill a hole.

Rowan Marshall
The key forward can clunk marks and kick goals. Marshall has really impressed in his first season. He has slowed slightly in the past few weeks and although St Kilda has multiple marking options in attack, the 21-year-old has a place at the Saints.

Nick O'Kearney
Showing improvement across half-forward and through the midfield. Has been winning his fair share of the footy in the VFL and is creative.