MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 6: Marc Murphy of the Blues walks to the coin toss during the 2018 AFL round 03 match between the Carlton Blues and the Collingwood Magpies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on April 6, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Carlton have officially announced the signature of captain Marc Murphy, who re-commits to the Blues for another two years.

The 30-year-old was reportedly chased by a number of clubs, but decided to remain a one-club player.

“Ultimately, it was an easy decision to put pen to paper on this new deal with the Club,” Murphy told carltonfc.com.au.

“I wanted to make a decision in the best interests of my young family. I am the captain of the football club, I love this place, my teammates and I’m more determined than ever to get this club back to where we belong.

“I know the direction that this young playing list is heading and that’s what drives me every day. I want to continue to get the most out of this group by driving the standards of myself and others to ensure there is success in the coming years.” 

The midfielder has captained the club since 2013, and has two club champion awards, as well as being named in the 2011 All-Australian team.

Murphy has played 241 games and kicked 171 goals, while also averaging 24.6 disposals and 4.1 clearances during his career.

Coach Brendon Bolton was excited to keep Murphy around, pinpointing his leadership and investment in his younger teammates as one of his best qualities. 

“We’re thrilled ‘Murph’ has recommitted to the Club for the next two years, and his loyalty to this football club should be widely acknowledged,” Bolton told the club's website.

“His influence and investment in this young group has been incredibly impressive. He is our captain, his care for the playing group is paramount and he continually sets the standards to drive this group to perform day in and day out. 

“Murph is a Carlton person through and through and we hope he further builds on his remarkable career over the next two years.”

Murphy will lead the Blues out onto the Gabba this Saturday afternoon, as Carlton travel to Brisbane to face the Lions.