Promising young full-back Joel King has extended his stay with Sydney FC until the end of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 Season.
The 18-year-old has been awarded a new one-year deal after breaking through for his Hyundai A-League debut in the Round 27 defeat to Newcastle Jets.
King, the youngest member of Sydney FC’s senior squad, also appeared in the AFC Champions League clash with Ulsan Hyundai on Tuesday and will continue to serve as Michael Zullo’s understudy on the left side of defence next term.
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“I’m delighted to be continuing my football education at Sydney FC and I’m looking forward to the next year,” the teenager told his club’s website.
“My knowledge and understanding of the game has improved enormously under Steve [Corica] and the other coaching staff this season, and playing alongside the best players in the country every day is only helping my game.
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“I really enjoyed the experience of my debut in the A-League and Champions League and felt I was able to grow into both matches.
“My aim is to add to those experiences over the coming months and increase my learning.”
King follows fellow young gun Luke Ivanovic in agreeing a contract extension with Sydney FC.
Head coach Corica applauded the teenage defender’s adjustment to the top level and tipped him to enjoy a bright future at the club.
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“Joel has waited a while for his chance but up in Newcastle he was great and I thought he did fantastically well in Ulsan against one of Asia’s strongest football teams,” the Sky Blues boss said.
“He’s still very young with a lot to learn but he has a big chance to do that at Sydney FC and I look forward to him making the most of his opportunity.”
Corica’s men host rivals Melbourne Victory in a massive do-or-die Semi Final at Jubilee Stadium this Sunday, May 12.
The winner will meet either Perth Glory or Adelaide United in the Grand Final.