The Newcastle Jets have been handed a big boost, with confirmation central defender Joe Shaughnessy has extended his contract with the club until the end of the 2026-27 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
The 33-year-old joined the club from Scottish Premiership side Dundee FC ahead of the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League campaign and would prove to be a pivotal acquisition by head coach Mark Milligan.
After getting up to full speed in Australia Shaughnessy soon established himself in a Jets side that would go on to create club history, winning a first ever Isuzu UTE A-League Premiers Plate having already clinched the 2026 Australia Cup at the start of the campaign.
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In total the Irishman went on to play 22 games for the Jets, scoring his only goal against the Wanderers in Round 13 and is delighted to be extending his stay in the Hunter.
“I’m very excited to have signed on for another season at the Jets,” said Shaughnessy, after inking his new deal.
“I loved my first year here and I’m looking forward to helping the team achieve more success this season.
He added: “I’m also excited to experience Asian Champions league football and to help the team compete there as well.”
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Shaughnessy’s return will no doubt be a huge positive for Milligan given several first team players have departed in the off-season including Shaughnessy’s central defensive partner, Mark Natta.
“Joe had a fantastic season and embodies everything we want to be as club,” said Newcastle Jets boss Milligan.
“Joe has leadership qualities and has shown great growth in his game last season. We look forward to seeing him continue with the club.”
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With Shaugnessy now tied down for another season the Jets will be in the market for more reinforcements as they head into a new campaign which will see them juggle both A-Leagues and AFC Champions League Elite commitments.
Greek striker Nikos Vergos has been recruited from Melbourne Victory whilst Melbourne City midfielder Zane Schreiber has also signed on, however Milligan has lost plenty of experience following the exits of first team players such as Lachie Rose, Kota Mizunuma, Clayton Taylor, and Lachlan Bayliss whilst captain Kosta Grozos has also departed.
