Carlton Football Club is delighted to announce forward-turned-defender Liam Jones has put pen to paper on a new two-year contract.

The 26-year-old will remain at Ikon Park until at least the end of 2019, after agreeing to terms this week. 

After stringing together consistent form in the VFL in his new on-field position, Jones was recalled to the Blues’ senior side in Round 12 against the Giants and played a key role in the Club’s one-point win over GWS. 

He is currently ranked first in the competition for one-percenters per game, averaging 11.2.

Jones said he was thrilled to be staying at Ikon Park for a further two years.

“The move into the back six has obviously reinvigorated me and I’m really grateful to the Club for giving me the opportunity to go around again for the next couple of years,” Jones said. 

“I want to make particular mention to (Northern Blues coach) Josh Fraser and (Blues' backline coach) Dale Amos. They are two coaches who have invested a significant amount of time into my development as a defender, and I have really enjoyed working alongside them both. 

“I know I have a long way to go with my development and I am continuing to learn the defensive craft, but I am excited to be continuing on for the next couple of years with the Club I love and I’m looking forward to seeing what this young group can achieve in the coming years.” 

Head of Football Andrew McKay said Jones’ revival as a defender was a terrific story of persistence. 

“It’s a fantastic example of someone having an opportunity put in front of him and making the most of it. His attitude and approach to learning his new role should be praised, and his terrific form has been rewarded with a new contract.”

“Liam has a lot to learn as a defender still, but we know he will continue to work hard and apply himself on developing his craft over the next two years.” 

Jones was selected by the Western Bulldogs as a second round pick in the 2008 AFL National Draft, and was subsequently traded to Carlton in 2014 for pick No.46. Since making his debut for the Western Bulldogs in Round 18, 2014 Jones has since played 88 AFL games and booted 84 goals.

He becomes the 11th player to re-sign with the Blues in six weeks, joining Zac Fisher, Sam Petrevski-Seton, Charlie Curnow, Harry McKay, Andrew Phillips, Ed Curnow, Tom Williamson, Ciaran Byrne, Harrison Macreadie and Matthew Wright.