Whether they're playing for a lesser-followed club, excelling in an overlooked position, or simply not getting the recognition they deserve — these five stars have flown under the radar this season.

One GWS star is having an All-Australian season, while a Gold Coast defender is reaping the rewards of a positional switch.

These footballers are in career-best form or have simply found the perfect balance of ball-winning and impact for their team.

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1. Stephen Coniglio

With the departure of midfielders Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper, you could be forgiven for writing this GWS midfield off. But, the brilliance of Stephen Coniglio has led the Giants one win away from the top eight.

The 29-year-old is quietly averaging a best-ever 30 disposals per game and sits fifth in score involvements per game. Coniglio isn't just winning the ball at a huge rate, he's taking ground and punishing teams with his penetrating kicking.

The Giants midfielder is finding career form and is building a strong partnership with fellow ball magnet Tom Green that can challenge the AFL's best midfields.

While teammate Toby Greene took the Brett Kirk Medal for best-on-ground against Sydney in Round 7, Coniglio's two-goal, 28-disposal haul was similarly impressive.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - MAY 04: Stephen Coniglio of the Giants gestures to a team mate during the round seven AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the St Kilda Saints at Manuka Oval on May 04, 2019 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
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