The former Koroit and Panmure premiership player said he had “100 per cent” been happy to quickly put pen to paper and ensure his future at the club as the Eagles strive for a maiden senior footy flag.

“We’ve definitely got the cattle and the attitude (to win a flag),” O’Keefe said.

“(But) all finals teams, you need that touch of luck to keep injury-free.”

The team has soared under O’Keefe’s guidance, rising from eighth in the Mininera and District league last season to sit in the top two 12 rounds into 2016 with a chance of snatching top spot if they defeat Tatyoon on Saturday.

O’Keefe, who turned 34 this week, said while the Eagles had picked up quality recruits, much of the improvement had been driven by the existing group of players.

“Probably the transformation of some of the players, the local lads (has impressed me),” he said.

“Things are going really well – it started with a pretty big preseason this year and the boys were really keen to get fit and learn a bit of a different game plan.”

With his playing career in its twilight years, O’Keefe said he would take things one season at a time, but had always been keen to spend at least two years at his newest football home.

Club president Des Cameron praised O’Keefe’s work ethic and professionalism.

“We knew when we got Simon that he would certainly get more out of our playing group and I suppose his ability to recruit players certainly helped,” Cameron said.