PROMISING utility Blake Acres has extended his contract with St Kilda and will remain a Saint until at least the end of 2020.

The West Australian was contracted until the end of next season, but the Saints moved to extend his time at the club after he cemented his spot in the team in 2017.

Acres, who turns 22 next month, was draft pick No.19 at the 2013 NAB AFL Draft and made his debut in round 7, 2014.

He has since played 44 games and is developing into a likely prospect as a big-bodied midfielder.

Acres kicked 11 goals in 18 games and averaged 20 disposals per game as he began to gain confidence.

"It was a really simple decision for me," Acres said.

"I'm excited by the direction this club and playing group is heading.

"We are a tight-knit group and we're looking forward to getting back to work and making our mark next season."

St Kilda chief operating officer Ameet Bains said, "We saw Blake's confidence as a player improve this year as he found more consistency with his football.

"His size and athleticism really sets him apart as a midfielder and we saw him go forward on occasions and be really dangerous."