MIDFIELDER Dom Tyson has signed a contract extension and will remain with the club until at least the end of 2019.

Although Tyson was already locked in for 2017, a further two years has resulted in him being in the red and blue for at least the next three seasons.

General manager of football operations Josh Mahoney said Tyson had been rewarded for his strong season.

“Dom has been a consistent performer since arriving at Melbourne in 2014, highlighted by two top five finishes in the best and fairest,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“Dom’s stoppage craft and his ability to kick goals makes him an important part of the mix in our midfield.

“He has added different layers to his craft each year and we look forward to that continuing as our young midfield develops as a group.”

Tyson, who has played 71 AFL matches since he made his AFL debut with GWS Giants in 2012, has added 58 games with Melbourne since 2014.

A NAB AFL Rising Star nominee with the Giants in 2012, Tyson finished second in Melbourne’s best and fairest in 2014 – his first year at the club. This year, he finished fourth in the Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Trophy.

His 529 disposals accumulated in 2016 was his best performance in a season.

Tyson said he was rapt to sign on with the red and blue and hopes to forge a long career with the club.

“It was a really busy negotiation and discussion, and there was a little bit of back and forth between manager and club, but for me, it was a really, really easy decision,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“I’ve completely bought in on the direction of the club and I just want to make sure I’m part of it and contributing.

“For me, it’s good to get that security and have a good off-season and know that this is my future for the next few years. Hopefully I’ll play for the club for the rest of my career.”

Tyson said he was looking forward to building his game under new senior coach Simon Goodwin.

“At 23 years and 70-odd games, it’s a good time to cement yourself into the team and make a good contribution. Hopefully I can help us rise up the ladder in the next few years,” he said.

“I’m super excited to see Goody take over the role – he’s got a great relationship with players and we’ve already seen changes to the environment and day-to-day operations. He puts a high value on learning and knowing your craft as a footballer.

“I can’t wait to get back into training.”