Dayne Zorko's Brisbane Lions teammates have emphatically backed the veteran's bid to play on next year.
The 34-year-old played his 250th game in Saturday's agonising AFL grand final loss against Collingwood at the MCG.
Famously overlooked in four national drafts, Zorko didn't make his AFL debut until age 23 so the former captain is determined to extend his career for as long as he can.
The nuggety forward-midfielder is hopeful he can earn a deal to play on into a 13th AFL season but contract negotiations remain ongoing.
Lions star Hugh McCluggage wanted Zorko to be part of the club's bid for redemption in 2024 following Saturday's four-point defeat.
"(Zorko's) played some sensational football this year," the Lions vice-captain said on Sunday.
"He's been such a massive part of our group for such a long period of time.
"The boys absolutely love having him around the club. He's has done so much for us, me personally, and also the boys in the club."
Harris Andrews, who took over the captaincy with Lachie Neale from Zorko before this season, believes the oldest player on the Lions' list still has much to offer.
"(Zorko) is a massive part of this club and he's a heart and soul player," the star defender said.
"We love having him out there and I think he's still got plenty left to give.
"He's played some really good footy this year."
Fellow veteran Daniel Rich has already retired after falling out of the Lions' best team mid-season, while question marks remain over three-time Hawthorn premiership forward Jack Gunston's future in Brisbane.
