Star Western Bulldogs midfielder Jackson Macrae says not wanting to face the stress of contract speculation was a major factor in sealing a new deal before the start of next season.
The 23-year-old, who was already contracted for 2018, yesterday signed a four-year contract extension to remain at Whitten Oval until the end of the 2022.
The talented ball-winner told SEN Breakfast the relationships he has built since arriving at the club ensured he had no intention of heading anywhere else.
“I’ve loved every minute of my time here, since I got drafted back in 2012 and just the relationships I’ve managed to build has been so special and really couldn’t think of playing anywhere else,” Macrae said.
“I was still contracted until the end of next year, but it wasn’t something I wanted to stress about leading into next season and I was pretty keen to get it all wrapped up, and focus on footy.
"For those who know me I just like to play my footy and get along with it, and enjoy my life outside of footy. I didn’t want it to become a big distraction for myself, or the club.”
“I'm very happy to get it sorted.”
Macrae was full of praise for premiership coach Luke Beveridge and the way he got the best out of the group, and says knowing his role each week has been key to his gradual improvement.
“He just finds a way to get the best out of every individual and you know what your role is, week in and week out," he said.
“He’s also a great motivator of people.”
The former Oakleigh Chargers product averaged 27.5 disposals per game in 2017, and starred with 33 disposals in the 2016 Grand Final victory against Sydney.