The 20-year-old is recovering from an ACL injury which sidelined him for the second half of last season, but still attracted attention from Melbourne clubs.

Sharrock is due back midway through the year and will remain aligned with Wangaratta as his home club for the 2019 Ovens and Murray season.

Pies’ coach Luke Morgan said Sharrock has the club’s full support.

“He intends to pursue a VFL career, which is great in the future,” Morgan said.

“He’ll be aligned with Wang, but he’ll be a Williamstown player.

“Hopefully he gets back from his knee injury and plays some games for both Williamstown and Wangaratta during the year.”

Morgan admitted Sharrock has been doing everything right since the injury.

“His recovery is on track and he’s a very diligent young fellow,” he said.

“I’ve been very impressed with the way he’s attacked his rehab.

“He’s a kid that wants to learn and impress and he’s obviously got huge upside.

“I’ve got no doubt he’ll get fit again and make an impact at VFL level.

“We wish him all the best and we’ll be with him all the way.”

Sharrock is set to relocate to Melbourne in the coming week to continue his studies, along with his apprenticeship.

Morgan added Wangaratta will continue to work closely with him.

“He’ll be in Wangaratta for a week every month and the other three weeks in Melbourne,” Morgan said.