Sydney has locked away yet another one of its bright young core with Justin McInerney signing a four-year contract extension to remain a Swan.
The 21-year-old midfielder has enjoyed career-best numbers through his first five games this season, and his new deal will see him remain in Sydney through the 2026 season.
After being drafted with the 44th pick in the 2018 draft, McInerney has gone from strength to strength in every one of his four seasons in the AFL program, and played a career-high 21 games in 2021.
READ MORE: Greg Norman confirms PGA Tour’s worst nightmare
READ MORE: ‘Complete garbage’ that NRL must stamp out
READ MORE: Veteran in firing line amid Bombers’ struggles
“We have a lot of good players, and a lot of good people around us at the club. I never looked anywhere else, it was always the Swans,” McInerney said in a statement after re-signing.
“It’s such an exciting time for our club with our mix of senior leaders and younger guys coming through – I’m really looking forward to what’s to come in the next few years.
“Personally, I just want to continue to play my role – whether that’s playing outside or moving inside, I’m happy to play wherever the team needs me.
“It’s just such a special club to be a part of, we love playing with each other and we love playing for each other. People talk about the Bloods culture, and it rings true. I’m really looking forward to spending the next four years here.”
Sydney’s general manager of football, Charlie Gardiner, added; “we are thrilled to have Justin commit to the club for the next 4 years”.
“Justin has impressed us with his hard running and versatility and is developing into an important part of our young midfield group. He has an excellent feel for the game and is continually learning and working hard to improve.
“Justin is a quality young man and brings a fantastic energy with him wherever he goes, both on and off the field. We’re all looking forward to watching him continue to grow and improve his game in the years ahead.”
McInerney is averaging a career-high 22 disposals per game in five appearances so far this season for the Swans.He finished fourth in the AFL Rising Star award last season and took home Sydney’s Most Improved Player award.