EMERGING midfielder Jordan Gysberts has signed a two-year contract extension with the club, committing to the Demons for 2012-13.

General manager of list management Tim Harrington said Gysberts was an important re-signing for the club.

“It’s pleasing to have Jordie recommit to the club for a further two years,” he said.

“He has shown in his brief exposure at the AFL level that he can really mix it with the elite. We see Jordie as a long-term player at this club.”

Gysberts said he was rapt to sign a new deal early in the season.

“The club has shown a lot of faith in me for the past year and a bit, so I’m really happy to be on board and really happy to be part of Melbourne’s future,” he said.  

“I’m really enjoying my time at Melbourne and I want to be a one club man and be part of the culture of the club for the coming years.”

The 19-year-old has played just five AFL matches, but looms as one of Melbourne’s most integral players long-term.

His ball-winning and clearance ability has already been a feature of his game, despite his limited AFL appearances.

Gysberts is already averaging more than 21 disposals per match.

Last year on debut against Geelong in round 10, he collected 26 possessions. He then backed it up with 27 touches against Carlton and received a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination.

After one more appearance against Collingwood in round 12, a back injury ruined his second half of the season.

Gysberts returned to the side in round three against Brisbane Lions and also played in Melbourne’s 90-point win over Gold Coast Suns.

Drafted at No.11 in the 2009 NAB AFL Draft, Gysberts was recruited from Norwood (VMFL)/Yarra Valley Grammar/Eastern Ranges.