St Kilda forward Max King has opened up on the public scrutiny he has been under this season, conceding he has been 'down on himself' at times during the year.

King kicked just 19 goals this year from 12 games before his season was cut short by a knee injury.

Fresh off signing a monster contract extension to stay at the Saints, King said the scrutiny he is often under is part of being at a club that is so desperate for success.

"I set a high standard for myself and at times if you don't hit those standards, you can get down on yourself," King told Sarah Olle and Josh Gabelich on Trade Radio.

"But I am chipping away at trying to improve that area (and) keep getting better in that space.

"I can tell when I am copping it (because) people are checking in more with me.

"Being a key forward and at a club desperate for success, that is all part of it. I don't think it solves much moving clubs. I understand the criticism."

The 24-year-old is expected to return for day one of pre-season after recovering from tearing his PCL in July.

Despite missing finals this season, King is optimistic the Saints are ready to surge up the ladder.

"We have now got a list and a group who are really driven and the most connected in my time at the club," he said.

"Although we have had a few tough years, I really want to stick it out and achieve something with this group and this club.

"I am absolutely pumped to be at Moorabbin for a few more years. I have total belief in the players and the coaches. I want to be a part of it."