Carlton have claimed Geelong Falcons midfielder Sam Walsh with the No.1 pick at the 2018 AFL draft.

The classy on-baller had long been the favourite to be the first player taken at Thursday evenings selection meeting at Marvel Stadium on the back of his stunning under-18 season.

The All Australian captain, who was also named the most valuable player at this year’s national carnival, is a prolific ball winner and is considered a potential club captain.