Four games is all it took for North Melbourne to make a decision to reinvest in rookie, Tom Murphy.

This week the club extended the young defender’s contract to secure his immediate future.

“To get offered a two-year contract I’m very overwhelmed and very appreciative, and can’t wait to stay with North,” Murphy told foxfooty.com.au’s Matt Balmer.

“Having a one-year contract, it’s a bit daunting as you don’t know what is going to happen for the next year, and it’s in the back of your mind.”

Murphy’s debut came in dramatic circumstances, when Jarrad Waite was a late, late withdrawal in Round 11 with a calf complaint.

“I wasn’t really sure I was going to debut like that,” Murphy recalled.

“It was a great experience and I think playing a few games after that you just appreciate how good AFL footy is and it just makes you want it that little bit more.

“It was a really good experience to be out there and I loved every moment. It was an overwhelming experience only having a couple of minutes to get ready and it’s not your usual preparation but it was great.”

Murphy went on to play games against Geelong, the Bulldogs and Essendon and averaged 11 disposals.

“I wasn’t really expecting to play AFL in my first year, it’s been a really good year and I’m just really happy to get a two-year contract and to just make the most of it,” he said.

“I really want to look at many more senior footy opportunities towards the end of the year, but if not I’ll just play my role at VFL and see what happens.”