Dustin Martin’s latest AFL contract negotiations with Richmond have gone a lot smoother than the last round.
In a major boost for the Tigers, they announced on Tuesday night that Martin had re-signed for two years.
That commits the 23-year-old midfield ace to the club until the end of 2017.
It also leaves defender Alex Rance as the only high-profile Richmond player yet to commit long-term to the improving club.
Martin’s contract negotiations in late 2013 became a debacle as he held out for more money and looked at going elsewhere.
He eventually signed a two-year deal on lower money, but it was a messy episode.
This time, the deal was done with a minimum of fuss.
“I’m rapt, to be honest – I’m glad we got it all done and I don’t have to worry about it for another few years,” he told the club website.
“I couldn’t be happier.
“The club has been massive for me – they’ve obviously been a massive part of my life since I was 18 and they’ve taught me about life and a lot about footy as well.
Football manager Dan Richardson said the negotiations with Martin’s manager Ralph Carr were amicable and regular.
“Dustin was always committed to continuing his career at Richmond,” Richardson said.
“It’s obviously great news, as Dustin is such a pivotal player in our plans for the future.
“Dustin’s development, both on and off the field, has been extremely impressive and its exciting to think that at just 23, he still has scope for significant further improvement.”
Martin joined the club with their top pick at No.3 in the 2009 national draft.
Coach Damien Hardwick came to Richmond around the same time.
“We’re all in this together, so we certainly want to stay together and finish it off,” Martin said.
He has played 108 games and finished third in last year’s club best and fairest count.
Martin also polled 13 Brownlow Medal votes and made the initial All-Australian squad for the first time.
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