After ongoing discussions, Sam Fisher and St Kilda Football Club have agreed to keep the veteran defender’s playing future open.

The 34-year-old has played 228 games since debuting in 2004 and had a strong start to the 2016 season, playing nine games before a hamstring injury kept him to three senior appearances after Round 10.

Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel Ameet Bains said the club has had open conversations with Sam throughout the latter part of the season.

“Ongoing conversations with Sam and his management have been transparent and productive,” he said.

“Sam has expressed his initial desire to play on in 2017 if this fits into the club’s list management strategy.

“At this stage, both parties will continue discussions ahead of the upcoming trade period, after which we will be in a better position to make a more informed decision about the future,” Bains said.