Hawthorn midfielder Liam Shiels has signed a three-year contract extension with the Hawks, and will remain at the club until at least the end of the 2022 season.

The 2018 vice-captain was already contracted in 2019, but extended his deal for another three years, as he looms as one of the leading candidates for the vacant captain position.

The three-time premiership player has 186 games to his name, and has averaged 20.0 disposals, 3.7 marks, 6.0 tackles and 3.6 inside 50s per game over his career.

โ€œWeโ€™re thrilled to have Liam recommit to the club for a further three seasons,โ€ Hawthorn GM-Football Graham Wright told the club's website.

โ€œHe has been a terrific contributor over the past 10 years, and he sets a great example for his teammates both on and off the field.

โ€œLiam is 27 and would have been an unrestricted free agent next year.

โ€œFrom a club perspective, it was important to lock him into a long-term deal that could see him finish his career here at Hawthorn.โ€