In further signing news, the Newcastle Jets are pleased to announce that Ben Kantarovski will be at the club for a further two seasons.
The midfielder has recommitted to the Jets, in a deal which will see him in red and blue until the end of the 2019/20 Hyundai A-League season.
Kantarovski currently holds the games record for the Jets – having made 155 appearances for the club – becoming the first ever player to reach the 150-game milestone.
Jets’ boss Ernie Merrick said Kantarovski had been a standout performer all season.
“I think Ben has been tremendous for us this year, he’s fully fit and playing some of his best football,” said Merrick.
“When I first arrived at the club, I identified Ben as a player who would be really valuable to our squad – he’s strong, tough, versatile and an out-and-out ball winner.”
Merrick was full of praise for Kantarovski, who has dealt with a number of injury setbacks over his career to date.
“Ben enjoyed his first injury-free pre-season in a number of years and we can see the benefits through his performance on the pitch,” added Merrick.
“To have notched more than 150 games for his hometown club is a fantastic achievement and it’s great to have him at the Jets for another two seasons.”
Katarovski’s association with the Jets stretches back almost 10 years, with the Broadmeadow Magic junior signing his first professional contract with the club at just 16 years of age.
He made his Hyundai A-League debut in the opening round of the 2008/09 season and remains the youngest debutant in the club’s history at just 16 years and 208 days.
Kantarovski said he was enjoying his football in the Hunter and was keen to continue his part in the Jets’ recent resurgence.
“We’re playing some great football and it’s been fantastic to be a part of that,” said Kantarovski.
“It’s been really enjoyable working with Ernie and the coaching staff this season and we have a strong squad of players at the moment – it’s an exciting time.
“I’m glad that my future is settled in Newcastle for the next few seasons, there’s nothing better than being able to represent my hometown week-in-week-out.”
