CARLTON mid-forward Michael Gibbons has been upgraded from the rookie list after signing a new contract to remain at the Club. 

The 25-year-old has penned a one-year deal and will be part of the Club’s senior list in 2021.

It is well-deserved recognition for a player who has been one of football’s great stories in recent seasons. 

00:34

R6 | Blues somehow survive ferocious wave, Gibbons goals

Carlton withstand a series of tenacious tackles from the Bulldogs and manage to muster another goal through Michael Gibbons.

Overlooked for years despite starring at VFL level with Williamstown, Gibbons finally got his AFL opportunity when the Blues signed him through the pre-season supplemental selection period ahead of the 2019 season.

From that moment Gibbons has not looked back, missing just one game for the Club in his debut season and backing that up with a further 15 games in 2020 – building a reputation as a consistent and hard-working footballer. 

With greater responsibility higher up the ground in 2020, Gibbons thrived during his second season utilising his elite running ability to full effect.

Carlton Head of List Management Nick Austin said the promotion of Gibbons to the senior list was well-deserved.

“There wouldn’t be many players who deserve the opportunity they have been given more than Gibbo,” Austin said. 

“He’s worked so hard to get to where he has, but the best part is that he hasn’t taken the foot off once he’s got there. Instead, he has taken his work rate to a new level, and that desire and hunger to succeed is infectious across our whole group.

“For what he brings on the field, Gibbo brings just as much value off it. He’s a fantastic character, a quality person and we are delighted to have him at our football club.”