Western Bulldogs stalwart Bob Murphy says his optimism about the club’s future convinced him to extend his AFL career into a 16th season.

Murphy has signed a one-year deal to continue playing next season, convinced the long-time struggling Bulldogs are readying for success.

“I love seeing how the young guys are shaping our footy club so I’m keen to come along for the ride,” Murphy told reporters on Thursday.

“The success, there’s going to be plenty of shades of what it looks like, but I think we showed on the weekend that there are some exciting times ahead.”

The Bulldogs downed finals prospects Gold Coast last weekend in a result which confirmed Murphy’s desire to continue.

The 32-year-old’s decision comes in a week notable for the retirement announcements of Collingwood’s Nick Maxwell, St Kilda’s Lenny Hayes and Port Adelaide’s Dom Cassisi.

“There’s a few of my generation who have rounded up, which gets you thinking about footy and time,” said 265-gamer Murphy.

“But personally, I feel good and optimistic about where we are headed as a footy club. I feel I still have something to offer.”

Bulldogs coach Brendan McCartney said Murphy’s form – playing every game this season and averaging almost 20 disposals – made it an easy decision to offer him another contract.

“It is the best I have seen Bob play in two and a half years – he’s beating his man, he’s winning crucial contests and using the ball as well as ever,” McCartney told reporters.

“He’s just a high quality person. He has great values, consistent behaviours, and has an undeniable love and passion of this club.”