Essendon young defender Martin Gleeson has agreed to a new two-year deal that will see him remain at the club until at least the end of the 2016 season.

The 20-year-old made his debut against North Melbourne in round one before going on to play nine matches at AFL level.

Gleeson is excited to carve out his career at the True Value Solar Centre.

“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity the club has given me, my teammates and coaches have provided me with plenty of encouragement and support and I’m excited to have re-signed,” Gleeson said.

“I’ll continue to work closely with the development coaches on a number of key areas of my game, and hopefully that will allow me to put my hand up to play more senior football next season.”

“As tough as it was to lose our final, it’s a motivator heading into next season. We know where we have to get to and the hard work that’s required over the summer if we want to be a successful team.”

Gleeson was selected with pick 53 in the 2012 national draft and has overcome a number of injury setbacks including shoulder surgery over the last two seasons.

His standout game this season came against St. Kilda in round five when he gathered 23 disposals in a display of his class and poise under pressure.

General Manager Football Operations Rob Kerr said the young defender was set for a bright future in the red and black.

“Despite some injury setbacks during the 2014 season Marty showed glimpses of his ability when given the opportunity at AFL level,” Kerr said.

“We are very pleased with the progress he made in just his second season of football and we look forward to him continuing to develop his game over the next two seasons.”