Midfielder Lin Jong will continue his career with the Western Bulldogs after signing a two year contract extension this week.



The 23-year-old enjoyed his best return of games in 2016, playing 16 for the season, including an Elimination Final win against the Eagles.



The powerful midfielder sustained a fractured collarbone in that game, and made an incredible recovery to feature in Footscray’s VFL Premiership – taking best-a-field honours.



Jong reached career-highs in multiple statistical categories this season (average kicks, handballs, marks and goals per game) and emerged as an important cog in the Bulldogs midfield.



List Manager Jason McCartney said Jong’s signature was welcome news ahead of the upcoming trade period.



“Jongy has shown improvement year on year since being drafted in 2011 as rookie, but in particular his second half to this year was outstanding.”



“He is everything we'll look for in a player in terms of his character and work ethic, and for Lin to sign for a further two years is just a great result for the Club.”



Jong said after taking time to consider his position, it was clear that he wanted to remain a Bulldogs player.



“There are a number of factors I considered before signing, and in the end it was quite obvious that the things I was looking for, were right in front of me .”



“I have the best chance of improving my football here, but also to play with this group of players, and under this group of coaches, is everything I could ask for.”



“I’m just so proud to be a Western Bulldogs player and look forward to playing a part in its growth into the future.”





Jong was drafted with pick 9 in the 2011 Rookie Draft, and has played 39 senior games.