Sydney midfield dynamo Luke Parker says he would love to lock in a long-term AFL deal with the Swans and hopes to get it done soon.
Parker is in the final year of his contract and his courageous and uncompromising style makes him a player who will be coveted by rival clubs.
The youngest member of Sydney's leadership group, 23-year-old Parker has made it clear he wants to stay put.
"I do love Sydney and at the moment my management is just sorting through it so hopefully he can come up with something soon," Parker told AAP.
Swans' general manager of football Tom Harley said this week he is really confident Parker would remain with the club for a long time.
"You never know what can happen if you lock in a one-year contract and next year you break your leg and you won't be able to play again," Parker said.
"For me, I'd love to lock in a long-term deal and continue my time in Sydney."
Parker missed the Swans' 2015 finals campaign with a fractured ankle but is now back in full training.
"At times I was a little bit tender coming back straight into skills so I haven't done too much of that stuff, but I've gotten over that hill," he said.
Although he's already won a premiership and best and fairest and established himself among the Swans top players in his first five years, Parker suggested he was still far from a finished product.
"I think I can improve my consistency over a full game and I'm still working on a lot of my leadership stuff," Parker said.
"I want to take everything to the next level. It's a great opportunity I've been given to be a part of the leadership group.
"I'll just keep developing in that area. It's something I do love doing."
He was excited about the way star forward Lance Franklin was looking after missing the finals last season due to a mental health issue.
"I think it's probably the most training he's really done this time of year and it's great to see he's in really good shape," Parker said.
Parker said it a was strange feeling the Swans' games record holder Adam Goodes wasn't around the club after ending his 17-season career last year.
"He's been such a champion and a massive part of my career and my development, it's sad to see that he's not here," Parker said.
"I'm hoping he comes and pops his head in now and then and comes and sees the boys."
Share
