The South Sydney junior transformed himself from understudy to the likes of Isaac Luke and Nathan Peats at the Rabbitohs to the Dragons ironman, barely missing a minute of his side’s 2017 campaign and thrusting himself into the NSW selection mix.

Off-contract in 2018, he’s sure to attract some attention from rivals, including his former club, but the 24-year-old wants to remain in Wollongong beyond next season.

“It’s only early days but I want to stay here,” McInnes said.

“We’ve had some early discussions and I'll look to get it sorted whenever it happens but this is the club for me. I’m not going to be looking to go anywhere else.

“I love this club for giving me that chance and just the whole environment...I couldn’t be happier so I definitely want to get it done whenever it’s time to do it.”