FOR A THIRD time in his career, Max Gawn has been included in the All Australian team.

The Melbourne ruckman was named on the interchange in the 2019 Virgin Australia side, being recognised for his outstanding season in the red and blue.

Gawn managed 36 hit-outs per game this year – the most in the competition – and also averaged a league-high 12 hit-outs to advantage.

The 27-year-old was effective all across the ground, averaging 14 disposals, five score involvements and four marks from his 21 games.

It is the second year in a row Gawn has featured among the competition's best, having been named in the ruck in 2018. Gawn received his first All Australian selection in 2016.