Toby McLean signs two-year contract extension with reigning premiers Western Bulldogs

THE WESTERN Bulldogs have locked away premiership forward Toby McLean to a new two-year deal, tying him to the club until the end of 2019.

Toby McLean celebrates after the 2016 Grand Final siren.

WESTERN Bulldogs have locked away premiership forward Toby McLean to a new two-year deal.

The Herald Sun can reveal the crafty goalkicker signed a contract extension on Thursday tying him to the club until the end of 2019.

McLean, 20, played 15 games last season including three of the club’s four stunning finals wins.

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The livewire forward made an important contribution late in the season after overcoming a foot injury, averaging 19 possessions over his last four matches.

McLean said he was thrilled to sign the new deal early after starting pre-season training last week with the rest of the first-to-fourth year players.

“I’m very excited to hang around for a few more years,” McLean said.

Toby McLean celebrates a goal with Lin Jong.

“I don’t think there’s any place I’d rather be. Everyone is excited to be back.

“We’ll definitely be hungry again and we’re very much looking forward to 2017.”

List Manager Jason McCartney said McLean, who was taken with pick No.26 in the 2014 national draft, had made a sparkling start to his AFL career.

“To play such an important role in our recent finals campaign after just 19 career games is a testament to his ability, hard work and dedication,” McCartney said.

“He is just a great club person and we look forward to seeing him continue to develop over the coming years.”

Originally published as Toby McLean signs two-year contract extension with reigning premiers Western Bulldogs