Young gun Darcy Parish says it was only a matter of time before he signed on at the club he loves earlier this week, extending his time at The Hangar until at least the end of the 2021 season.

Signing an extension was never the main focal point for Parish in 2019, instead he wanted to solidify his spot in the senior side and continue to improve after a promising start to his career in the red and black.

Things didn’t immediately go to plan as Parish was left out of the team in round one in a tough start to the year.

But rather than letting the disappointment dent his confidence, he got to work and earnt an immediate recall in round two against St Kilda, kicking off a sensational run of form.

“It was disappointing to miss round one, obviously everyone wants to put their name up for that round one spot but there just wasn’t a spot for me in that team,” Parish said on RSN on Wednesday.

“I went to the coaches and got some great feedback off them and just went back to the VFL and tried to play some really good footy.

“I was lucky enough to get back in and now I’ve just held my spot, which has been great for myself and the team.”  

Greater opportunities on the ball have yielded great results for Parish, who has taken his game to new heights since returning to the senior team.

Tough in the contest and classy on the outside, the 22-year-old has booted a career-high 10 goals from his 17 games, averaged an equal career-high 21 disposals and racked up career-high averages for tackles (3.7 per game), clearances (3.5), inside 50s (3.6).

Parish says he has thrived as the team has continued to improve around him, winning eight out of the last 10 outings including the last five games.

“The team’s coming together really nicely,” he said.

“This year is my fourth year and I’ve really established myself and feel confident out there, and I’m just playing with some real freedom, so it’s good to be playing some good footy.

“There’s probably a little bit more midfield time than the other years, but I’m pretty confident with the role and I have played it for the last couple of years.”

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Parish is thrilled to stay in the red and black off the back of his fine form as he looks to maintain his momentum for the remainder of the season. 

“I’m in love with the club and it was just a matter of time. 

“I wanted to come out and play some really good footy for the club this year and that was my main focus. 

“I’ve been able to do that, so to get the deal after that I’m super happy and super pumped to stay on.”

Parish’s next assignment is Essendon’s important clash with Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium on Saturday.