GIANTS defender Lachie Ash has put pen to paper on a two-year contract extension after a blistering start to his second season in the competition.

The 2019 number four draft pick has played just 18 career games but has caught the eye of football watchers with his rebound off half-back in a young GIANTS side.

The 19-year-old is averaging almost 24 touches and eight marks a game and starred in Friday night football last round with 35 disposals and 15 marks.

“We’ve been really building with a young group and it’s really exciting to see where we can go with things,” Ash said after inking an extension until the end of 2023.

“Everyone’s buying in to what we want to do at the moment and I’m really enjoying playing my footy here. 

“I’m really enjoying the Sydney lifestyle so it was a very easy decision for me to stay.”

After playing 12 games in his debut season alongside AFL champion Heath Shaw and All Australian Lachie Whitfield, Ash said he learned a lot from the pair that he’s been able to implement in 2021.

“I think when you come in and you’re trying to find your feet in new surroundings, I probably still took a little bit longer to find my feet than I would have liked,” Ash said.

“But this year I’ve been really comfortable and I think playing some ok footy has helped.

“I’m really happy with where I’m at at the moment and with where the club’s going so I’m really enjoying it.”

GIANTS General Manager of Football Jason McCartney said the club is excited to add Ash to the club’s stable of young guns contracted beyond this year.

“We’re delighted to extend Lachie’s contract,” McCartney said.

“He’s had a great start to his short career so far and we expect him to be an important part of our team going forward long-term. 

“Lachie’s diligence and hard work off the field has shown in his performances so far this season and we’re excited for what his future holds.”