Carlton’s Ed Curnow says he started 2015 with the goal of gaining a contract extension, and this week his hard work and determination paid off with the inking of a new two-year deal.

Since joining the Blues as a rookie in 2010, the 25-year-old has relished his time at Ikon Park. He says he always wanted to remain a Bluebagger.

“It’s something that I’d set my sights on at the start of the year so I’m really really glad to be here,” Curnow told Radio Sport National on Wednesday morning.

“It means a lot to me and I’m rapt to be staying at the Blues for the next couple of years.”

Curnow, who is averaging 21 disposals and five tackles, says injecting versatility to his game has been a focus this season.

“In 2013 I was purely tagging, but this year I’ve been able to go in defense, play on the wing, and on the ball a bit more in my own right.

“I think as long as I can play various roles it will help me stay around a bit longer,” he said.

As one of only three Blues to have played every game this season, Curnow’s among the top of Carlton’s stats sheets for disposals and tackles – but his goal tally is somewhat lacking, as he’s yet to score a major for the year.

The stat is not lost on Curnow, who admits he’s been copping flack from a surprising source.

“I always have my nanna bagging me out that I don’t kick goals,” he joked.

“And I’ve got a younger brother who’s a full forward and kicks three every week, so I’m well aware I haven’t kicked one.”

Curnow has just four quarters of football remaining for 2015 to score that elusive goal, when Carlton battles it out with Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday afternoon. The match also marks the end of Carlton veteran Andrew Carrazzo’s AFL career.

Curnow had nothing but praise for his former vice captain, saying he’ll be a “huge loss for the footy club because he demands so much from teammates”.

“Andy is one of those players who I’ve looked up to since I got to the club,” Curnow said.

“He’s had a massive influence on my own personal development and I’m sure whatever he goes into he’ll succeed at.”