Triple treat for Eagles re-signings

Key trio Scott Lycett, Andrew Gaff and Jack Darling have all re-signed with West Coast in a major coup for the club.

Gaff, 22, was due to come out of contract at the end of this season, but has signed a new two-year extension to remain with the Eagles.

Darling, 22, was not due to finish his existing deal until the end of the 2015 season, but the club has moved early to stave off any rival bids for the key forward.

All three players were born in West Coast’s inaugural premiership year of 1992.

Lycett, 21, used his own Instagram account to announce this afternoon that he had locked away the lengthy deal, which guarantees he remains at the Eagles until the end of the 2018 season.

His re-signing was critical with veteran Dean Cox retiring at the end of this season.

The Eagles now have both of their first-choice ruckmen for 2015 locked away, with Nic Naitanui signing a five-year deal earlier this season.

Lycett has showcased his considerable potential in his fourth AFL season, playing 10 matches as part of the club’s rotation of their rucks.

He booted four goals as a forward in West Coast’s big win over Collingwood earlier this month and has also been influential around the stoppages.

Lycett used social media to express his delight at committing to the club for the long term.

“Would like to thank everyone that’s helped me make the decision and I’m happy to announce that I am…STAYING AT WEST COAST for another 4 YEARS!!,” Lycett posted.

“Amazing club with a great bunch of lads. Bring it on.”

The South Australian’s management had put contract talks on hold earlier in the season, raising fears that Lycett could be lured back to his native State after struggling for senior appearances until this year. Port Adelaide had been among potential suitors who had openly expressed an interest.