St Kilda Football Club is delighted to announce the re-signing of Dylan Roberton to a long-term deal after the star Saint inked a new four-year contract.

In a clear indication of his confidence in the trajectory of the current playing group, the club leader will remain in red, white and black until at least the end of 2021.

Roberton enjoyed a standout season in defence, culminating in selection in the Virgin Australia AFL All-Australian Squad.

The 26-year-old finished the number 1 ranked Saint this year for kicks, marks and rebound 50s , and became one of the premier players for intercept marks in the competition.

Roberton said he was thrilled to be committed to the club for a further four years.

“I’ve loved my time at St Kilda and am really excited about what the future holds,” he said.

“As a group, we’ve been developing for a few years and I’ve enjoyed watching a number of young guys step up this year and take their footy a new level.

“We’re obviously disappointed not to be playing finals but I think we’re building nicely.

“We want to be a regular finals team and I’m determined to do what I can to help us take the next step.”

Chief Operating Officer Ameet Bains said Roberton’s signature was a vitally important one.

“Dylan is the type of player very much in demand by other clubs and we’re delighted that he has made such a long-term commitment to St Kilda,” Bains said.

“He has been an important player for a number of years, but I think this season with the addition of Jake Carlisle and Nathan Brown we’ve seen him elevate his game to another level.

“His ability to win one-on-one contests and to roll off his opponent to help out his fellow defenders is first rate, as is his ability to set up play from defence .

“He is also an integral member of our leadership group supporting Jarryn Geary and is someone who is highly respected internally.”

After being selected by Fremantle with pick 49 in the 2009 AFL Draft, Roberton made his way to Linen House Centre prior to the 2013 season.

He has since played 87 games for the Saints, adding to the 37 played for the Dockers, finishing twice in the top 10 of the Saints Best & Fairest before this year.