WITH the opening game of the season just two days away, this is the most important week for AFL Fantasy coaches.

Most coaches would agree, the cash cows are the most important members of your team. While they may not be the most prolific performers, the value they add to your squad is what sets you up for the year as you build your squad for finals.

Below is a list of cash cows to consider in each position that are a chance to be named in round one or play early on this season.

Sam Walsh (MID, $270,000)
Is this the biggest no-brainer selection of the year? Behind Patrick Dangerfield, Walsh is the second most selected player in Fantasy Classic, appearing in 58.3 per cent of teams. A score of 100 in his first outing for the Blues justifies the $100k price premium he has as the No.1 NAB AFL Draft selection last year. Don’t overthink it, just pick him.

Michael Gibbons (MID, $170,000)
Fantasy coaches were stoked when Gibbons was signed by the Blues in February. The former Williamstown VFL player has a swag of credentials including two J.J. Liston Medals and high Fantasy numbers; his most recent average being 110 in 2018. Although his role looks likely to be in the forward pocket that won’t allow for him to rack up the big numbers of the past, but he may gain forward status ahead of round six to add flexibility to your team while making a few dollars.

Will Setterfield (MID/FWD, $251,000)
The third most selected Fantasy Classic player is a popular fourth or fifth forward as we look across squads. The former Giant played in both JLT games with his highlight being the opener against the Bombers with a score of 95. Now over his ACL injury sustained last pre-season, the Blues will be hoping that Setterfield can show the form that saw him taken at No.5 in the 2016 national draft.