Josh Walker and Mitch Robinson will return to the Lions Den in 2019 after they both re-signed for another year.

Walker was rewarded with a new contract after solid performances in 2017 and 2018.

In 2018, his third season at the Lions, the 25-year-old played 14 Senior games. He started 2018 in the AFL side before being dropped back to the NEAFL team after Round 4’s loss to Richmond.

He would have to wait ten rounds before he was elevated back into the Senior team in Round 14 against GWS. Walker made the most of his opportunity that afternoon, impressing coaching staff with his adaptability after he was required to move from the forward to the backline.

Consistent performances then saw him maintain his spot for the remainder of the AFL season, playing mostly as a defender. He was an integral part of the Lions’ three-game winning streak and would play some of his best football to date in the maroon, blue and gold. In the Round 18 match against the Adelaide Crows he was nominated for Mark of the Year.

Walker said the team, under Senior Coach Chris Fagan’s guidance, made a lot of progress this year and he wanted to continue on the journey with his teammates.

“Signing on for another year was never in doubt for me. I don’t want to be anywhere else,” Walker said.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the people around the Club and the playing group, we are a very tight-knit group.”

He admitted after filling in for Harris Andrews in the backline this year, he now considers himself a defender.

“I feel very much at home down back now and guys like Hodgey (Luke Hodge) and Harris and Dizz (Darcy Gardiner) have been really helpful to help me find my feet.

General Manager of Football David Noble praised Walker’s ability to shift positions around the field with ease.

“We have been able to utilise Josh’s skillset over both ends of the ground, which has been invaluable this year, especially when troops have been down,” Noble said.

“He has shown continuous improvement over the past two years and has made the most of his opportunities.”

Noble said Robinson, like Walker, was a flexible player who can excel in a variety of positions on field.

Robinson played 19 games for the Lions this year and celebrated his 150^th AFL game in Round 1 against St Kilda.

In the Round 10 match against the Swans he had a season-high of 35 disposals, 12 tackles and two goals.

 “We love Mitch’s intensity and his effort can never be questioned,” Noble said.

“He has worked really hard on his game this year and we look forward to seeing what’s in store in 2019.”

Robinson has loved playing for the Lions the past four years and is looking forward to his fifth season with them.

“Playing my 150th AFL game in a Lions jumper was a proud moment for me and my family this year,” Robinson said.

“I can’t wait to go again with the team in 2019.”

Robinson and Walker will join their teammates for pre-season training in mid-November.