Melbourne midfielder Tom Sparrow has penned a five-year extension, turning his back on the lure of returning home.
Sparrow has been one of the competition’s biggest improvers this season in the rejuvenated Demons under new coach Steven King.
The 2021 premiership player was being actively pursued by Port Adelaide in his home state of South Australia.
But Sparrow, 26, opted to prolong his career in the red and blue.
Melbourne list manager Tim Lamb said Sparrow had “grown into one of the competition’s most impactful midfielders”.
“We’re thrilled that Tom has decided to extend his contract and continue his career at Melbourne,” Lamb said.
“Tom has grown into one of the competition’s most impactful midfielders, while also establishing himself as a valued leader within the club.”
“We look forward to seeing what Tom will continue to bring to the program over the next five years.”
Melbourne is still in the hunt for a top four position with Western Bulldogs at MCG this weekend.
The Demons are, however, likely to be without spearhead Jacob van Rooyen after he received a ban for high contact on Port Adelaide’s Aliir Aliir.
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Tyler LewisSports reporter