Ben Brown’s AFL All-Australian drought is likely to continue despite the North Melbourne key forward finishing runner-up for the Coleman Medal.

Brown was in a four-way contest for the league’s leading goalkicking award and only three of them are likely to make the final 22.

Richmond’s Jack Riewoldt won the Coleman for the third time last weekend and he could be All-Australian captain for the first time when the honorary team is announced on Wednesday night in Melbourne.

Brown was four goals behind Riewoldt, with Geelong spearhead Tom Hawkins finishing third on 58 and Sydney star Lance Franklin one goal further adrift.

All four were named on Monday in the All-Australian squad of 40.

The popular speculation is that Franklin will be named at centre half-forward, giving him eight All-Australian selections, and Hawkins will also make the team.

Minor premiers Richmond lead the nominations with eight and of those, Riewoldt and Dustin Martin are certain selections.

Tigers defender Alex Rance was last year’s All-Australian captain and he is also a strong chance to make his fifth team.

West Coast star Andrew Gaff is another likely selection, despite missing the last three games of the season because of his suspension.

Gaff must serve an eight-game ban for striking Fremantle opponent Andrew Brayshaw and he will miss the Eagles’ final campaign.

The blow left Brayshaw with a broken jaw.

Melbourne ruckman Max Gawn, who won the AFL coaches association player of the year award and Collingwood’s Brodie Grundy are certain selections.

It will be the first time two specialist ruckmen have featured in the All-Australian team since 2012.