West Coast co-captain Liam Duggan is committed to guiding the club through its rebuilding phase after signing a four-year extension that will keep him with the Eagles until at least the end of 2028.
The 27-year-old, who had been engaged in prolonged discussions with the club, expressed his desire to remain loyal to the team that drafted him with pick No. 11 in 2014.
Duggan stated that his lifelong ambition was to be a one-club player and repay the loyalty the Eagles have shown him, which heavily influenced his decision.
“I’ve always intended to stay here,” Duggan said. “My goal has been to contribute to rebuilding the club to the success we had early in my career, and I’m eager to work with our younger players to achieve that.”
As he steps into a leadership role, Duggan is enthusiastic about taking charge and guiding the team. He also noted the excitement of moving forward with new developments, especially with Simmo stepping away, marking a new chapter for the team.
“I’m looking forward to whatever comes next and am thrilled to be part of this journey with the group,” he added.
Duggan has appeared in 175 games for the Eagles, including their 2018 premiership, and was appointed co-captain alongside forward Oscar Allen last year.
The defender is the latest player to renew his contract with the Eagles this year, joining Elliot Yeo, who signed on until the end of 2027, and several other younger teammates.
“Liam has been one of our most reliable performers for years, leading by example on game days and as a consummate professional off the field,” said Eagles football boss Gavin Bell.
“He sets a great example for our younger players, builds strong connections with both senior and emerging players, and has been an exceptional ambassador for the club since his arrival.
“We’re excited that he will continue as an Eagle for the rest of his career and look forward to him helping drive our team’s progress.”
Duggan will be absent from this weekend’s western derby due to a second concussion he suffered earlier this month against Brisbane.