West Coast captain Luke Shuey will continue helping to mould the next generation of Eagles next season after signing a contract to extend his stellar career into a 14th campaign.

Shuey’s one-year extension should also see the tough midfielder surpass the 250-game milestone – a feat achieved by only 11 other Eagles.

After an injury-interrupted start to the season, the 2018 Norm Smith medallist has put together a strong block of form across the past 12 consecutive games, averaging 21 disposals and 5.4 clearances.

Shuey is set for his 17th appearance for the season in Geelong on Saturday and will enter next year 12 games shy of 250 matches in blue and gold.

“It’s been a challenging season for the club but as a playing group we have remained united and seen encouraging growth from our next generation who will drive the next era of success, and I’m really excited to stick around for another year to help guide those players,” Shuey said.

“The opportunities they have had to play senior football this year will pay us back in future and I’m really confident with better availability we can bounce back quickly as a team in the coming seasons.”

West Coast coach Adam Simpson paid tribute to Shuey for his leadership on and off the field and for working his way back from multiple hamstring issues earlier in the year.

The 32-year-old has worked diligently with strength and conditioning staff to develop a suitable training program after suffering a number of soft-tissue setbacks since he claimed his second John Worsfold Medal in 2019.

“He’s probably not back to his ultimate best but I can see some really good signs that he’s got his body right, got a good program in place – they’ve done a really good job to get him back – and then there’s still some good footy left,” Simpson said.

“It’s good to see him back next year.”