St Kilda have ensured Gold Coast product Sam Gilbert can not be poached by the AFL expansion club, re-signing him until the end of 2011.

The talented 22-year-old defender, recruited from Southport, would have been a likely target of the Gold Coast, who can sign an uncontracted player from each club ahead of their inaugural 2011 season.

Gilbert has played 40 games with the Saints since his 2006 debut and starred in defence in last weekend's win over Sydney, with 20 disposals and nine marks.

The Saints have also been experimenting with him as an extra forward option at times.

"Sam is an important part of our team and we are delighted that he has re-committed to the club," football manager Matthew Drain said.

"He is an exciting young player who gives us options with his flexibility, can adapt to playing in different positions and we expect will still develop as a player."

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