All Whites defender Dane Ingham has signed a contract extension with the Brisbane Roar ahead of the upcoming Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season.
The 18-year-old will continue his football development at the Roar, after making his senior debut in Brisbane’s AFC Asian Champions League qualifier against Global FC in January 2017 aged 17.
The versatile Ingham, who plays as a fullback or winger became the fourth youngest footballer to score in the Hyundai A-League and second youngest scorer for Brisbane last season when he scored on just his second appearance for the club in a 2-2 draw with Perth Glory at nib Stadium.
Ingham says he is delighted to extend his time at the club and is looking forward to the future.
“I’ve been at the Roar since I was 15 years old and I’m proud to extend my contract,” Ingham said. “It’s a great environment to be part of for a young player, and I want to continue to learn off the senior players in our squad. The last few months have been a dream come true for me.”
Ingham’s contract extension comes following an extraordinary few months with the New Zealand National team, having featured at the U20 FIFA World Cup in Korea, making a senior international debut for the All Whites at 17 in March and recently appearing at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup in Russia.
Ingham started at right back against World No 17 Mexico and World No 8 Portugal in the final two games and impressed with his first taste of football at this level.
The Brisbane Roar youngster featured in two of the All White’s group stage matches against European Champions Portugal and football powerhouse Mexico, becoming the second youngest player ever to play at the FIFA Confederations Cup. The youngest was Chris Wood at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa.
Head Coach John Aloisi is pleased to see Ingham extend his stay with the Roar.
“Firstly, congratulations to Dane on his achievements with the All Whites over the past few months and representing Brisbane with distinction,” Aloisi said.
“It’s great news that a talented young player like Dane has committed his future to our Club. A product of our youth system, Dane’s contract extension is reward for the hard work and the significant contribution he has already made to our side.”
Pre-season training commences at Ballymore Stadium today (Thursday 6 July) for Head Coach John Aloisi’s side ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2017/18 season starting in early October, while the All Whites come back together for the OFC Final Stage of Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup in September.
-NZF
