ST KILDA midfielder Clint Jones is set to continue his career in 2014, with talks underway to re-sign the run-with specialist for at least one more season.
Jones, who has played 17 games and been a consistent performer this year, is keen to play on and has received positive feedback from the Saints on his future.
With a number of senior players expected to retire at the end of this season, the 29-year-old said he hoped to increase his leadership presence at the club in 2014.
"From a training point of view and a work rate point of view, I think I've got a lot to offer the club with the young guys coming through," Jones told AFL.com.au.
"Physically my body is in pretty good shape and I love playing footy.
"With the young group we've got, and potentially with a few senior guys retiring, it's a good opportunity to maybe step up and have a stronger leadership role.
"You do need role models and you do need leaders around the club."
A key member of the Saints' Grand Final teams in 2009 and 2010, Jones has played in 11 finals and shapes as a valuable mentor to the club's emerging young midfield.
He has taken on a prominent role with rookie Tom Curren, who has pushed into the senior team and impressed in run-with roles.
"I knew he may get the opportunity to do some of those roles and early on he was asking me for some feedback on how to go about it," Jones said.
"It's really positive to see how he's played, the last two weeks in particular.
"He looks really good and really comfortable at AFL level I think."
While Jones played on Sydney Swans midfielder Kieren Jack in round 21, Curren was sent to Dan Hannebery, holding the ball magnet to 16 possessions.
The Saints face Gold Coast at Etihad Stadium on Sunday and Jones said Curren could be handed the job on Brownlow Medal favourite Gary Ablett.
"There's so much to gain out of playing on someone like Gary," Jones said.
"He'll definitely take you to the footy, and with his bodywork and running power, he's the total package as a player.
"The last couple of times we've played the Gold Coast I've actually had (Harley) Bennell, who's been in really good form the last couple of weeks."
Jones, who has played 131 games, has averaged 20 possessions in 17 games this season, including a season-high 31 against Essendon in round four.
Having enjoyed one of his best pre-seasons since joining the club as a rookie in 2007, he said his body was still feeling fresh.
I've been pretty fortunate, I haven't had any significant injuries and the last couple of years I haven't really missed a session," he said.
"This year was one of the strongest pre-seasons I've had to be honest, so it was good to come into the year feeling fit and fresh.
"Hopefully my body stays in tact and I can keep getting out there and completing every session."
Twitter: @AFL_Nathan
