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ST KILDA has re-signed star midfielder David Armitage for three years, keeping him at Moorabbin until at least the end of 2019.

Armitage's contract follows the re-signings of senior coach Alan Richardson for three years and midfielder Jack Steven for five.

The 27-year-old has been in career-best form in 2015 and has collected 495 possessions – the fifth most of any player in the AFL.

He's also stepped up as captain in the absence of Nick Riewoldt in three games this year and said the direction of the club made his decision to commit straight-forward.

"There are exciting times around the club at the moment with a lot of quality young players coming through, and we are clearly heading in the right direction,” Armitage told saints.com.au.

“I’m really enjoying my football right at the moment and there’s a good feeling among the group. I look forward to helping take the club to the next stage including returning to finals as soon as possible.”

Richardson said the midfielder's work ethic had allowed him to start fulfilling his potential.

The coach praised his newfound leadership and rapid improvement.

“David has worked extraordinarily hard on his game and has emerged as a real leader of our playing group,” Richardson said.

“His game has improved rapidly and he has shown himself to be a crucial part of our team. For him to sign on for a further three years is a real indication of the belief our senior group has in the direction this team is taking.”