Fremantle’s prospects for 2018 have received a boost with veteran defender Michael Johnson agreeing to terms for a one-year contract extension.

The 32-year-old played 22 games for Fremantle in 2017 - the first time he had featured in every game since 2012 - and finished the season without any injury complaints.

Crucially, Johnson played his usual high standard of football while leading a young and developing back six that, on occasion, featured five players aged 24 years or less.

Johnson said this developing core added to his excitement for playing on in 2018.

“I’m stoked to be a part of Fremantle for another year,” Johnson said.

“We’ve got a really young crop of players who have been playing all year, so to be one of the older guys seeing these younger guys coming through while playing some really consistent footy for Fremantle, is a good sign.”

“I’m excited to be a part of it and, hopefully, in the years to come the Fremantle Football Club will be one of the powerhouses of the competition.”

With 231 games under his belt, Johnson is hopeful of another full season after finishing the 2017 season unscathed.

“I’m really happy with the way I’m going at the moment,” Johnson said.

“There’s no post-season surgery which is a bonus, I haven’t had that for a number of years now so hopefully, day one of pre-season training I’m raring to go.”

Fremantle’s general manager of list management Brad Lloyd highlighted the crucial role Johnson will continue to play at Fremantle in 2018.

“Michael’s been an outstanding player for the club for many years now,” Lloyd said.

“He came in the pre-season draft in 2003 and he’s been an important player around the football club. He’s played a significant role in helping the club by bringing through our talented young up and coming players.”

“He’s a leader in the backline, he really gives strong direction and he also contributed himself with his attributes, ball-use and intercept marking.”