Matthew Suckling has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him at Victoria University Whitten Oval until at least the end of the 2019 season.

The 30-year-old was lured from Hawthorn with a three-year deal back in October 2015, and notched his 50th game in Bulldogs colours in Round 11 this season against the Demons.

Suckling has averaged 21.9 disposals and 4.9 marks per game since arriving as an unrestricted free agent and has posted a career-high 24.5 disposals over 11 matches this season.

“Matthew is a key member of our group and we’re really excited to have secured him for another season,” said Bulldogs’ General Manager of List and Recruiting, Sam Power.

“He’s had some injuries in the past month but he was in career best form this year before that, and we’ve got no doubt that when he returns he will continue to have a major influence on games this year and going forward.

“As one of our more experienced players, Matt’s presence around the Club is really important for our young group as they continue to develop as players and people.”

Sucking is in his 10th AFL season after being rookie listed by Hawthorn with the 22nd pick of the 2007 AFL Rookie Draft. 

He went on to play 102 games for the Hawks and was a member of their 2014 and 2015 premiership teams.