BEN MCKAY has signed a two-year contract extension with North Melbourne, as the key defender looks to become a permanent fixture in the Kangaroos' backline in 2019. 

McKay, who was contracted until the end of this year, has extended until at least the end of 2021.

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The 21-year-old said he was looking to add to his one career game played back in 2017.

"It's really exciting. Entering my fourth year now it's an exciting part of my career and two years is a good deal," McKay told the club's website.

"My first three years were a bit below par, by my standard, not playing as many games as I’d like but in the next three years hopefully I can really make an impact and start showing people what I’m capable of."

McKay has worked closely with Robbie Tarrant over the pre-season, following the star defender around and getting an insight into what's needed to make the grade.

McKay said he'd put on three or four kilograms over the pre-season, moving from 98kg to 102kg.

"I did a lot of training with Taz (Tarrant) over the break. We formed a really good connection I think so hopefully that blossoms on-field as well this year and we can work well together," McKay said.

"I've done the whole pre-season with him and there's been a lot of weights sessions together.

"He has been fantastic for me. I owe a lot to him as well."