ST KILDA midfielder Lenny Hayes will play on with the Saints in 2014.

Hayes has signed on for what will be his 16th season of AFL football.

The 33-year-old’s future had been a source of much discussion this season but he has signed on for another season with the Saints.

Hayes said he was excited to continue with the Saints next season.

“Committing to a 16th season of AFL football is not a decision I have come to lightly but after taking everything into consideration, I am fully dedicated to playing for our proud club once again next year,” Hayes said.

Hayes is a triple best and fairest award winner for the Saints, having also finished third in the 2009 Brownlow medal count.

He won the 2010 Norm Smith medal in the Saints’ drawn Grand Final with Collingwood and was also a part of the losing Grand Final teams of 2009 and 2010.

Since being drafted with pick 11 at the 1998 National Draft, Hayes has played 275 games and kicked 90 goals.