Fremantle defender Tommy Sheridan has been named in the 22Under22 squad for the 2016 season.

The AFL Players’ Association board selects the initial 50-man squad, with the final team decided by the fans.

Now in his fifth season, Sheridan, who has averaged 18.7 disposals and two tackles from his 20 games this season, says while it’s humbling to receive individual recognition his focus is team success.

“A little bit of individual reward is nice but it’s something I might reflect on when I’m finished up. It doesn’t really compare to any kind of team success,” he said.

Vote for Tommy here

Taken at pick 16 in the 2011 National Draft, Sheridan has become an integral part of Fremantle’s defensive structure, as well as moving into midfield to shut down dangerous opposition.

He kicked two goals while keeping Andrew Gaff to 19 disposals in the round 20 Carlton Draught Derby and backed that performance up a week later against Adelaide, when he kept Rory Sloane to just one inside 50.

To be eligible, players must be aged 22 years and under for the entirety of the season.

AFLPA president Matthew Pavlich said the calibre of candidates was particularly high.

“It’s really promising to sit back and look at the young players coming through that are already consistently strong performers so early on in their career,” he said.

“Some of these guys in this squad have only been in the AFL system for one or two years and a few of them are already considered their team’s most important player, so it’s a really exciting time for the future of the game – I can’t wait to see who the fans select as their final 22.”

If selected, Sheridan will join Lachie Neale as the only Fremantle players to be selected in the 22Under22 squad since it’s inception in 2012. Harley Bennell was selected while playing for Gold Coast in 2014.

Fans can vote by visiting 22under22.com.au, with the final team unveiled on September 13. Voting closes on Tuesday 6 September.