The Greater Western Sydney GIANTS have extended the contract of key young forward Jon Patton until the end of 2017.
The number one draft pick in 2011, Patton had his best season for the GIANTS, playing 19 games and kicking 25 goals before injuring his knee in the club's win over Melbourne last Sunday.
Patton, who was contracted till the end of 2015, will undergo a knee reconstruction next week.
GIANTS Chief Executive David Matthews said the club was delighted to be able to extend Patton's contract.
"Obviously it's been a very tough week for Jon. We want to give him some security and certainty as he undergoes surgery and rehab so he can look forward to a bright future with the GIANTS," he said.
"If anything, his injury setback only made us more determined to secure him. He's not only a great talent but a fine young man and one of the most popular players at the club.
"He's already shown a lot of character to fight back from one serious knee injury and we have no doubt he will do the same again and be a long term player for the GIANTS."
Matthews said the club hoped to be able to announce more re-signings in the near future.
"We believe we are building a really exciting playing list as our performances this year demonstrate. But we also have developed a really strong culture and tight knit playing group and staff and Jon is a great example of this."
Patton said he was delighted to be staying with the GIANTS.
"It's been a rough week but the club has always supported me and I want to repay the faith they've shown in me," he said.
"I love the club and my teammates and I cant wait to get the surgery done and get stuck into my rehab and get back around the boys as we look ahead to 2015.
"There's no doubt the GIANTS can achieve great success in the coming years and I am determined to be part of it."
Patton has played 29 games and kicked 34 goals since making his debut for the GIANTS in 2012. He was nominated the NAB Rising Star award for his performance against Geelong in Round 18 at Spotless Stadium.
