Dustin Martin has official re-signed with Richmond, as announced on The Footy Show.
He has signed a seven-year deal with the Tigers.
"I’ve decided to stay at Tigerland for another seven years, which I’m incredibly grateful for," Martin said on The Footy Show.
"It’s a massive relief, I’m sick of people of talking about it. I met with the coach and the leadership group [of North Melbourne] and I really appreciate those guys for taking the time and showing interest. I felt like I was cheating on a girlfriend."
"The Richmond football club has been great to me and we are on an incredible journey together. I certainly thought about it [leaving]…it was a stressful year. I was wrestling with myself. You need to make the most out of your football career while you can. There were plenty of conversations but in the end, Richmond is home to me. Dad and Ralph Carr said they will give their opinion but it comes down to what makes me happy."
Dustin’s father, Shane, said he is “very proud” about his son’s decision, admitting, “it’s pretty emotional.”
"He's a very humble shy kid," Shane said.
"The Richmond Football Club's been amazing for him, especially Trent Cotchin - I can't thank him enough."
Carr, Martin’s manager, has admitted the Tiger gave up over two million dollars to stay at Punt Road, and also said “this time last week he was going.”
Coach Damien Hardwick said Martin’s deal is “very exciting for the footy club.” He also added "Christmas has come early."
Richmond talent manager Dan Richardson has issued the following statement:
"We are absolutely delighted that Dustin has committed to a long-term deal with the club.," Richardson said.
"As we have said consistently, in the modern football landscape players and their management are entitled to explore their options. Our fans will be thrilled that after undertaking that process, Dustin has decided he wants to be at Richmond Football Club and a part of our future.
"Despite the constant media speculation, negotiations have always been conducted with transparency and in good faith. Dustin has played some outstanding football this season. His focus has always been on the team and that will again be the case as we head into the finals’ series."
EARLIER
Dustin Martin has made a decision on his future, according to Brian Waldron.
The former St Kilda chief executive is reporting the Brownlow Medal favourite has re-signed with Richmond for 1.3 million dollars over seven years. It is expected he will make the news official on The Footy Show tonight.
It's done!Dusty is a done deal . $1.3mill over 7 years. Great day for the Tigers. Footy show announcement tonight. #dustinmartin #Tigers
— brian waldron (@brianwaldron4) August 31, 2017
Martin had been offered a big money offer from North Melbourne. He was in New Zealand earlier this week discussing his contract options with his father, Shane, and manager Ralph Carr.
“All Richmond fans would be thrilled,” two-time premiership player David King told SEN’s The Run Home.
“They wouldn’t care what the figures are, the cap is the cap. If they’re under that, fantastic. Now is their time.”
Martin averaged 30.3 disposals, 537.8 metres gained, 14.2 contested possessions, 8.7 score involvements and 6.6 clearances throughout the home-and-away season. He was named in the 2017 All-Australian team.