New three-year AFL deal for Sloane

Star Adelaide midfielder Rory Sloane has signed a three-year contract extension with the Crows, tying him to the AFL club until at least the end of 2018.

Sloane would have attracted serious interest from a bevy of Victorian clubs had he decided to return to his home state.

But the 25-year-old decided to remain with Adelaide, who will now turn their full attention to attempting to re-sign their other out-of-contract midfield gun Patrick Dangerfield.

If Dangerfield were to leave as a free agent, Geelong shapes as the most likely destination.

Sloane has played 107 games for the Crows since debuting in 2009 and won the club’s best and fairest award in 2013.

“I have said many times before how much I respect and love this club and, in particular, the playing group,” Sloane said in a statement.

“With the support of my fiancee Belinda and family, I have been in constant talks with the club and am thrilled to sign a new deal.

“Our club is built on a team-first attitude and elite standards and it allows us all to thrive and improve, and there is no doubt success lies ahead.”

After missing three games earlier this season with a fractured cheekbone, Sloane has made an immediate impact on his return to the senior team.

“Rory epitomises the type of person we want at the Adelaide football club,” coach Phil Walsh told the Crows’ website.

“He lives by elite standards and inspires others to do the same and you can always count on him to get the job done on game day.”

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