HARRIS Andrews is in no rush for success and has total confidence the Brisbane Lions will be fine in the long run.
The 18-year-old Queenslander has been a shining light in a gloomy season for the Lions, and has extended his contract until the end of 2018.
He said there was no hesitation in signing 12 months before his existing deal expired.
In a reflection of his composed on-field demeanour, Andrews handled questions about his own future and that of the Lions with ease.
Despite the Lions sitting in last place with just three wins, the tall defender said he was happy to be patient for success.
"As a young fella you're happy to take your time and progress slowly," Andrews said.
"It's going to take time, we're all young and that progression each year is going to be important.
"Brisbane's my home. My family and friends are here. I love the club and they’ve done so much for me."
Andrews is 200cm and a product of the Lions academy and has impressed with his aerial expertise for such a young player.
He said the past week, with negative commentary around both his captain and coach and a heavy loss to Adelaide, had brought the club closer.
"We're a tight group up here, spend a lot of time together off-field," he said.
"These are the blokes you go training with every day, they're good mates of mine and it is hard to see that (criticism) but it only unites us even more.
"Players are paid to play football. We don't have to worry about all that off-field stuff, and just go out there and give it our all."