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Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury has put to rest any speculation he could be set for a late-career move, re-signing with the Magpies for two AFL seasons.
Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury has signed a new two-year deal that will extend his glittering career into an 18th AFL season.
The Magpies' games record-holder will remain at the club until the end of 2023, putting to rest any speculation he could be on the move.
Pendlebury, 33, raised the possibility of a late-career switch during a radio interview in August, but later clarified the comments saying he was committed to staying at Collingwood.
His contract extension is another boost for the Magpies after Craig McRae's appointment as coach to replace Nathan Buckley.
"I'm glad to have come to an arrangement with the club to share in what feels like a new era," Pendlebury said.
"Being a one-club player was one thing, something I am proud of, but my main motivation is to do all that I can to assist 'Fly' (McRae) and the new coaching group develop the squad.
"If you are not in contention, you have to be working towards it. That's exciting."
Collingwood football manager Graham Wright said the star midfielder would continue to provide invaluable leadership for the Magpies' younger players.
"One day, Fin Macrae or Tyler Brown or Reef McInnes will be able to look back and appreciate that in their earliest years they learnt from one of the best of all time in Scott," Wright said.
"His achievements speak for themselves but his dedication to his craft and ability to inspire the wider group is a fabulous asset for our club."
Pendlebury has played 334 games for Collingwood, including 183 as skipper, since debuting in 2006.
The Norm Smith medallist in the Magpies' 2010 grand final replay win, Pendlebury has claimed five Copeland trophies as the club's best-and-fairest.
He has captained the Magpies since 2014.
Collingwood have added recently retired Melbourne defender Neville Jetta to their coaching staff as they focus on investing in player development.
Jetta, 31, will work as a development coach and also play for the Magpies' VFL team.
"Given our list profile and the fact that many of the young players coming into the system have not played a lot of football over the last two seasons, due to COVID-19, it is important we provide a first-rate football education," Wright said.
"Neville is someone we identified some time ago. He is widely respected not only for his football but for his work off the field. He is passionate about helping people.
"He forged a very good career and did it the right way. We believe he will be an excellent addition to our program."
