IN THE final week of the two-week player review, melbournefc.com.au looks back on Melbourne's 2008 playing list. Although the team had a disappointing on-field season, claiming its first wooden spoon since 1997, several youngsters impressed. Working through the list alphabetically, five players will be reviewed each day (four in the final edition), starting with Clint Bartram and ending with Trent Zomer.

We look at Shane Valenti, Matthew Warnock, Isaac Weetra, Paul Wheatley and Matthew Whelan.

Shane Valenti – Secured the final position on Melbourne's list when he was selected at No.49 in December's NAB AFL Rookie Draft. It was a fine reward for Valenti, who shone with Sandringham in 2007, winning the Round/Fothergill Medal as the best young player in the VFL. The onballer then made his AFL debut in round eight, playing nine matches for the season – including seven in succession from rounds 14 to 20. Will be 22 next year and should continue to progress.

Matthew Warnock – After playing four matches across 2006 and 2007, the former rookie had a breakout season as an integral member of Melbourne's defence. Once he came into the side in round six, he remained for the rest of the season and produced some fine nullifying performances. Warnock, who turns 25 next season, has now shown he is capable at this level and based on some of his efforts in 2008, has the ability to hold down a key defensive post for the next five seasons.

Isaac Weetra – The talented 19-year-old forward entered his second AFL-listed season in 2008, after being drafted at 62 in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft. Troubled by a hamstring injury and a broken wrist in 2007, Weetra made his AFL debut in round one and remained in the side the following week. He was then dropped and, by round four, was playing for the Sandringham reserves where he remained for almost the entire season. As a result, he was delisted immediately after.

Paul Wheatley – The long-kicking half-back/winger's ninth season was his best. Having battled injuries over the journey, particularly in 2006 and 2007, Wheatley played 19 matches this year and is now a genuine contender for the Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Trophy. He amassed 462 disposals, including a career-best 36 against West Coast in round 20. An underrated performer, Wheatley turns 28 next season and he will be eager to back up his efforts.

Matthew Whelan – After playing just five matches last year due to hamstring, foot and calf injuries, Whelan again battled in the first half of 2008. He played just two games, but served a one-match suspension, spent time in the VFL and was regaining fitness and form. He came back in round 13, playing every match for the rest of the season and reinforced why he was an important member of Melbourne's defence in the middle of the decade. He will be again in 2009 – if he remains injury free.