Fresh off signing a new three-year deal with Adelaide, star midfielder Matt Crouch has spoken about the importance of the Crows sticking together rather than chasing lucrative contracts elsewhere.

“That’s the main reason you play footy,” Crouch said on Friday, “to be involved in success and premierships.”

“For me, that’s the reason I played when I was a young kid and that’s what I want to do in the future.

“I’m really happy to be here and really content with the footy club’s direction and where we’re going.

“I reckon we’re in a really good position now for the next three years at least to really challenge, and it’s going to be a good environment to be around.”

Adelaide lost stars Jake Lever and Charlie Cameron at the end of last season and have a bunch of key players coming out of contract in 2018, including Rory Sloane, Rory Laird, Tom Lynch, Rory Atkins and Brodie Smith.

News of Crouch’s re-signing on Thursday was welcomed by Crows premiership captain and FIVEAA’s own Mark Bickley.

“Achieved so much this year, hopefully plenty more to come!” Bicks tweeted, adding: “#Premierships #Brownlows #loyalty”