Promising Richmond midfielder Nathan Drummond has signed a one-year contract extension with the Club.

The new deal will keep Drummond, who has been sidelined with a serious knee injury since early last season, at Punt Road until at least the end of 2017.

Drummond was taken by the Tigers at pick 52 in the 2014 AFL National Draft following some impressive form at TAC Cup level with the Murray Bushrangers.

He adapted quickly to the step up to AFL ranks and made his senior league debut with Richmond in Round 4 of the 2015 season against Melbourne at the MCG.

His season, however, came to an abrupt end during the second quarter of that match, when he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

Richmond’s General Manager of Football, Dan Richardson said Drummond’s determination and resilience were highlighted when he suffered the injury.

“Nathan’s commitment to his rehabilitation has been impressive and we can’t wait to see him return to the field this year,” Richardson said.

“He has progressed well over the pre-season and is a promising young player for our club.  We’re really pleased to extend his contract.”

Part of Drummond’s recovery from his knee injury included a trip to America’s IMG Academy in mid-December.

He learned about managing his body to cope with the rigours of a return to full training and, eventually, playing.

The 21-year-old is expected to join the Tigers’ main training group within the next fortnight.