LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 10: Dale Thomas of the Blues celebrates after kicking a goal during the JLT Community Series AFL match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Carlton Blues at the University of Tasmania Oval on March 10, 2018 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Carlton veteran Dale Thomas isn't ready to give up his footy career, and has told the Herald Sun he wants to play on in 2019.

If Thomas was to pull on the boots once again, it would be his 14th AFL season, and his sixth as a member of the Blues.

The 30-year-old is enjoying an impressive start to the 2018 season in defence, and is in some form rarely seen during his time with Carlton.

Thomas is averaging 22.9 disposals, 2.4 rebound 50s and 6.7 contested possessions per game, all of which are his best numbers for the Blues.

While he wants to play on, Thomas does understand it shouldn't be at the cost of a young player with a bright future.

“The age is the thing that everyone starts speaking about, but form and how my body is going will determine it,” Thomas told the Herald Sun.

“I would certainly love to play on if I can play a role for the boys, but if I am going like a busted (backside) at the end of the year, I won’t be trying to stop someone else from playing.”

Thomas is hoping to help the Blues grab their first win of the season on Saturday, as they face old rivals Essendon at the MCG.

“These are the sorts of experiences you love playing in, against the arch rivals,” he said. “Everyone knows both teams are not going all that great so far (this year).

“It is going to be on ... we are really excited by the challenge.”