Young star forward Ben King has re-signed with Gold Coast in a major boost for the Suns’ long-term AFL ambitions.
The 21-year-old was due to come out of contract at the end of the 2022 season but has turned his back on huge offers to return home to Victoria, committing his future to the struggling south-east Queensland club for another two years.
The 202cm forward will miss the entire AFL campaign this year as he recovers from a torn ACL suffered last month.
However, the talented goal-kicker remaining on the Gold Coast is promising news for a club that has often been unable to retain their best young talent.
Ever since King was drafted by the Suns with the number six pick in 2018, there has been speculation he would eventually play with twin brother Max at St Kilda.
King booted a career-high 47 goals last year, including a bag of five in a big win over Sydney in round six.
Some other players who come out of contract at the end of the season include South Australian pair Izak Rankine and Jack Lukosius – who played together in high school in Adelaide – former Docker Lachie Weller, who is entering his fifth season on the Gold Coast, and forward Nick Holman.
Gold Coast finished 16th last season, with pressure increasing on coach Stuart Dew as Alastair Clarkson presence looms large with the four-time premiership mentor likely to return to an AFL club next year.
The Suns have had a strong preseason, with a practice match win over Port Adelaide followed by a victory over Geelong at Carrara on Monday night.
AAP / ABC
Source: AFL NEWS ABC
