Colin Garland has re-signed at Melbourne and will remain a Demon until the end of 2018.
Garland was a restricted free agent but told the club's website he never wanted to leave Melbourne.
"Whether the ultimate success comes while I'm here at the club or whether I just miss out and I'm part of building something – I'm happy being a part of it," he said.
Garland, 27, had a patchy 2014 season after having a bone spur removed from his ankle in January.
But 2015 was better for the defender who performed particularly well early in the season, although he missed three weeks with a broken hand.
Garland's re-signing was widely expected, but is still likely to come a relief to Melbourne fans after the club lost free agent James Frawley to Hawthorn last year.
The future of Garland's teammate Jeremy Howe remains in question.
It has been reported the utility wants $450,000-$500,000 a year to stay at the club, but has not been able to reach an agreement over his contract conditions.
The Dees look likely to pick up Essendon midfielder Jake Melksham, although Bombers football manager Rob Kerr said on Tuesday he hoped newly appointed coach John Worsfold could convince him to stay.
Col Garland's commitment shows his incredible character, plus the direction we are heading as a club @melbournefc #loyalty #gun— Jack Trengove (@jtren9)
October 7, 2015
