ANGUS Brayshaw never seriously contemplated leaving Melbourne despite strong opposition interest, with the midfielder rewarded with a new four-year deal at the Demons.
The midfielder has enjoyed a career-best year in 2018 and has extended his stay at the Demons until the end of 2022.
Brayshaw had been on the radar of several clubs across the season, including Fremantle and North Melbourne, but has stuck with the Demons after becoming a key member of their side.
"My first contract extension I signed I hadn't played a game and there was no thought in at all and of course I signed," Brayshaw said on Wednesday.
"Certainly there was some interest and that was really flattering and I think it probably makes you think about it and what's best for you.
"But at the end of the day I love Melbourne, and I couldn't even think about leaving. I'm very loyal to this place and a lot of people have put a lot of work into me so I'm keen to repay that faith."
The 22-year-old has endured setbacks in his time at the club, namely a series of concussions, and was left out of the Demons' line-up at the start of the year.
But he came into the side in round four and has averaged 26 disposals a game since, including five games of 30 or more touches.
"The biggest thing for me this year has been playing footy and consistency wise that's something that I've lacked," Brayshaw said.
"The thing that's been consistent for me has been the care from teammates and coaches has always been there and they've tried to make me a better player."
Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney said the club was delighted Brayshaw had recommitted.
"We're very pleased that Angus has signed on for another four years. He's worked extremely hard, particularly the past 18 months," Mahoney said.
"He's been through a lot as a player, with his concerns around concussion, and his form this year has been off the back of a lot of hard work by not only himself, but our coaching staff. They've helped get him back to playing at a high level.
"When he was selected with pick three in the national draft, we always knew Angus' ability was to play through the midfield, and to kick goals was a strength of his.
"We're starting to see that consistently. He's an important part of our young midfield."
Brayshaw played his 50th game for the Demons in last week's loss to Geelong but said he was confident the club could achieve sustained success in his time at the club.
"Our core of young guys is developing together and has been together through some hard times and I think if you look across the ground we've got most posts covered," Brayshaw said.
"We certainly think we're on the right track and the coaches are doing a great job. Progress isn't always linear and we're pretty conscious of that, but we're devoted to the path we're walking and we're going to stick to it."
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