Tim English signs five-year contract extension at Western Bulldogs

Tim English has revealed why he turned his back on interest from his home state of Western Australia to recommit to Western Bulldogs on a long-term deal.

GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 26: Tim English of the Bulldogs celebrates a goal during the round 24 AFL match between Geelong Cats and Western Bulldogs at GMHBA Stadium, on August 26, 2023, in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

Another big-name free agent has been taken off the table, with Western Bulldogs ruckman Tim English agreeing to terms on a new five-year deal to remain at Whitten Oval.

The All-Australian ruckman in 2023, English had been linked to a potential move home to Western Australia but will remain at the Kennel until at least the end of 2029.

English, 27, has not missed a game for the Bulldogs since round 16, 2022 and has averaged 16.5 disposals, 6.1 marks, 37.9 hitouts (11.2 to advantage) and 2.8 clearances this year.

“I am really enjoying it at the club and I’ve got some great mates here – it’s my eighth season now and I’ve developed strong friendships over that time,” English said.

Tim English has signed a five-year extension. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

“There are so many different factors that go into a decision, but I really want to win a premiership, that’s the ultimate goal for me at a football club.

“I feel like we have the opportunity to do that here and that would the best way to give back to the club. As a group we’re capable and everyone is putting in the work to get better and achieve that.”

English joins a long list of free agents who have chosen to remain put this year, with a dwindling group of prospects still on the market for clubs post-season.

Fellow Bulldog Jason Johannisen, St Kilda pair Josh Battle and Tim Membrey, GWS defender Harry Perryman, Richmond midfielder Jack Graham, Essendon’s Jake Kelly, Melbourne wingman Lachie Hunter and Sydney defender Harry Cunningham headline some of the free agents still available.

English had interest from West Coast. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Western Bulldogs list manager Sam Power said English was an “important part of this football club” and it was good to have his services for many years to come.

“Tim has been critical in our club’s strong performances throughout the year, regularly impacting games with his athleticism,” Power said.

“His ability to get involved around the ground and use the ball as a ruckman has been a valuable asset to our side, underlining him as one of the most damaging big men in the competition.

“We still firmly believe Tim’s best football is ahead of him at 27, with a five-year extension highlighting his faith in our program, staff and players moving forward.”

The Bulldogs sit seventh on the ladder ahead of a clash with North Melbourne on Sunday.

Originally published as Tim English signs five-year contract extension at Western Bulldogs