Carlton coach David Teague is “extremely comfortable” with Patrick Cripps’ commitment to the club.
The Blues co-captain is eligible for free agency when he comes out of contract next season.
Cripps is yet to play finals during his 118-game career at Carlton but the arrivals of Zac Williams and Adam Saad during the trade period has heightened expectations of a top eight finish at Ikon Park.
Teague says the star Blue is focused on helping the club return to past glories.
“Knowing Patrick and the way he’s committed and the conversations that we’ve had in the off-season in terms of how to make this club better, I feel extremely comfortable that Patrick is so committed to this club,” Teague told SEN’s Bob and Andy.
“He’s a large piece of where this club’s going. I don’t think I need to have those conversations.
“I love working with him, I love what he brings to our playing group both on the field and off the field.
“I think he’ll understand his importance and the impact he has on the people around him.”
Cripps was linked with a return to Western Australia before signing a two-year contract extension to remain at Carlton in 2018.
The 25-year-old is entering his eighth season at the Blues.