DASHING Gold Coast defender Adam Saad has re-signed with the Suns until the end of 2018. 

Saad was taken by the club with the 25th pick in the 2014 AFL Rookie Draft and took no time in turning heads last season with his blistering run-and-carry from the back half.

The two-year extension is a huge fillip for the Suns, with their season marred by a devastating injury toll and speculation around the future of stars Dion Prestia and Jaeger O'Meara. 

It comes less than a fortnight after media speculation suggested Saad had put contract talks on hold to consider a return to Victoria.


But Gold Coast fans can breathe easy, with the 21-year-old more than happy to extend his time with the Suns.

He said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him, by both the club and coach Rodney Eade.

"I'm really privileged to pull on the jumper every single week and play for this great club," Saad said.

"The club took a chance on me in the rookie draft two years ago. 

"Rocket's (Rodney Eade) been a big influence for me and has played a key role in my footy career. 

"He backs me in, has a lot of faith in me to play me every single week, and I just love playing with the players on the field as well.

"We're building something special … I feel like we're heading down the right direction." 

Saad has played seven matches this season, but missed the past two with a hamstring injury. He is expected to return in the next fortnight. 

List and strategy manager Scott Clayton said Saad had gained enormous respect in his short time at the club.

"He is part of a core group of players we believe will bring a winning culture to the Gold Coast," Clayton said. 

"We are committed to developing and improving him, not just as a footballer, but also as a person, this includes supporting his ambassador role with the AFL in the multicultural space where he is making a real difference on the Gold Coast."

An Adam Saad selfie on the Gold Coast. Picture: goldcoastfc.com.au