Ricky Henderson has signed a two-year contract extension, which will see him remain at Adelaide until at least the end of 2017.

Henderson was contracted until the end of next season, but the Crows moved quickly to secure his services long-term.

The athletic 25-year-old established himself as a damaging rebounding defender in 2013, using his speed, size and ability to read the play to set up Adelaide’s attack from half-back.

A fractured ankle during the pre-season caused Henderson to miss the opening four months of this season, but he’s displayed his trademark run and carry since returning in Round 16. He’s gained an average of 403 metres per game this season – ranked second at the Club behind fellow line-breaker Brodie Smith – and is averaging 22 possessions.

Henderson said he has confidence in the Club’s future.

“I like where our Club is heading,” he said.

“We have a talented young team and a coaching group, which I think can bring the best out of me and the rest of the boys.

“I also enjoy the Adelaide lifestyle.”

Head of Football David Noble said Henderson was the versatile type of player that every club needs.

“Ricky is such an important player for us and to have him commit for an extended period is great,” Noble said.

“He has returned from a long lay-off and wasted no time showing everyone how effective he can be off half back. His decision also reflects how comfortable and settled he now feels in Adelaide.”

A former basketballer, Henderson was recruited by the Crows with pick No.10 in the 2009 AFL Rookie Draft and has played a total of 58 AFL games.

Henderson’s signature comes a week after exciting rookie Charlie Cameron put pen to paper on a new two-year deal. Brodie Smith and Josh Jenkins, who are both enjoying career-best seasons, have also committed to the Club this season.