Young North Melbourne defender Ben McKay looks set to be a part of the clubโ€™s long-term future after re-signing with the club.

The 21-year-old has extended his deal for two years, taking him through until the end of 2021.

โ€œItโ€™s really exciting. Entering my fourth year now itโ€™s an exciting part of my career and two years is a good deal,โ€ he toldย nmfc.com.au.

โ€œMy first three years were a bit below par, by my standard, not playing as many games as Iโ€™d like but in the next three years hopefully I can really make an impact and start showing people what Iโ€™m capable of.โ€

North Melbourneโ€™s backline has one or two slots available and McKay will be looking to lock down a place for himself in 2019.

โ€œI donโ€™t like to put pressure on myself but Iโ€™m one of those guys who thinks ahead and I really want to start making an impact at AFL level and it does come down to opportunity, but Iโ€™ve got to focus on what I can do and not leaving any stone unturned, taking the game on and not being afraid to make mistakes and going for it.โ€

McKay has one senior game to his name, coming in the last round of 2017, and he is aiming to add to that.

โ€œWhen I do get an opportunity I want to grab it with both hands and start repaying the faith. Theyโ€™ve waited a long time for me to burst on the scene and when I do, hopefully I make an impact and start showing everyone that Iโ€™m an AFL player.โ€