Veteran defender Robert Murphy has agreed to terms on a new one-year contract extension with the Western Bulldogs.
The new deal will see the 265-game Bulldog play through at least until the end of the 2015 season.
An All-Australian half back in 2011, 32-year-old Murphy has played all 16 of the Bulldogs’ home and away season games in 2014, averaging 20 disposals.
View Robert Murphy's player profile and season statistics
In a week that has seen peers from other clubs call time on their careers, Murphy decision to play on comes with high confidence in the direction of the Bulldogs and his role in helping steer the ship.
“There’s a few of my generation who have wound it up, which just gets you thinking about footy and time, but personally I feel good, and I’m really optimistic about where we’re headed at this footy club,” Murphy said.
“I think I’ve still got something to offer.”
Ushering in the new breed of young Bulldogs ranks highly amongst the veteran defender’s motivating factors to continue his career into a 16th season, as does the lure of being a part of future Bulldogs’ successes.
“That’s my role here, and I’m still enjoying my footy, and obviously love this place,” Murphy said.
“So to get another contract, [I’m] really happy about it.
“I love seeing what the young guys [are doing], how they are shaping our footy club, and I’m keen to come along for the ride.
“Success, there’s going to be plenty of shades of that, and what it looks like, but I think we showed on the weekend that there are some exciting times ahead.”
Murphy was recruited from the Gippsland Power, taken at pick 13 overall in 1999 AFL National Draft.
