Star Crow Daniel Talia plans to finish his career as a one-club player after signing a new five-year deal.
At Adelaide’s Annual Club Members Meeting on Wednesday night, Coach Don Pyke confirmed Talia had inked a new contract, which will see him remain at West Lakes until at least the end of 2021
Talia, who was already contracted for Season 2016, will be 30-years-old by the end of his new deal.
The Crows best-and-fairest winner and All Australian defender said he was keen to put pen to paper before Round One.
“It’s great to have the new contract sorted,” Talia said.
“I’m really excited that I get to stay at such a great footy club that gave me the opportunity and drafted me. I now want to repay the faith and play some good footy here long-term.
“I’ve never wanted to leave, and never wanted to go home (to Victoria). To get a five-year deal is pretty fantastic from my point of view. It’s great to get it done and I can concentrate on footy the rest of the year.
“I definitely want to be a one-club player. Hopefully, I’ve got a couple of years left by the time I get to 30!”
Talia, 24, is one of the premier key defenders in the competition.
He earned All Australian selection at full-back in 2014 and was also crowned Crows Club Champion. This followed a breakout 2012 season in which the former Calder Cannon and Assumption College student received the coveted Rising Star award.
Rarely beaten one-on-one, Talia ranks No.1 at Adelaide and fifth in the AFL for spoils over the past four years (2012 -2015).
As durable as he is reliable, Talia has played 98 of a possible 101 games since making his AFL debut in Round 15, 2011. He is a two-time winner of the Dr Brian Sando OAM Trophy at Adelaide, recognising outstanding and professional attention to detail in the standard of preparation for being an AFL footballer. Talia is also a member of Adelaide’s senior leadership group.
Talia said he was determined to achieve success with his Crows teammates.
“There are a lot of guys around my age, who I’ve grown up with and become really good mates with,” he said.
“I love the direction the footy club is going in. We’re building a successful list and I want to help drive that and be part of that.”
Pyke described Talia as a player who set a standard to which others should aspire.
“Daniel is much more than an elite defender in the AFL, but also a respected and valued leader at our Club,” Pyke said.
“He sets high standards and drives our playing group to be the best they can be.”
Thanks to the @Adelaide_FC and all the supporters.. Love playing with my mates every week.. #weflyasone pic.twitter.com/5IsOIhCnpE
— Daniel Talia (@DanielTalia12) February 24, 2016