Key Huddersfield Town player signs contract extension
Radinio Balker has signed an extended contract that is due to keep him at Huddersfield Town until the summer 2028.
The Suriname centre-back has been with the Terriers since January 2024, and had just entered the final year of his present deal.
Having suffered injury problems in the early part of his Huddersfield career, Balker finished last season strongly, featuring in 27 of the last 33 league matches, including a run of 17 consecutive starts.
It was also the season which saw the Amsterdam-born defender break into international football.
Balker was unable to keep Huddersfield in the Championship when he joined from Groningen two-and-a-half years ago, making just seven appearances.
A broken ankle against Harrogate Town in pre-season was the last thing he needed but once able to build some rhythm in the side, he was able to show himself to be an elegant centre-back with a good turn of pace.
“I’m so happy to extend my contract here, and want to start by thanking everyone at the club for showing this confidence in me," said Balkner after signing his extension. "After a difficult start, I was able to find some consistency last season and all I want to do is be in a position to be a positive influence on the pitch for my team and our amazing supporters.
“I feel at home in West Yorkshire with my wife. We love the club, the people and the way of life here, so there was no hesitation in committing my future. I believe that I still have my best years ahead of me as a player, and I want to give everything I have to Huddersfield Town and help us reach our goals and ambitions in not only this season, but beyond.”
That eagerness to remain at the club shone through to sporting director Chris Markham.
“We’ve enjoyed some really productive conversations with Radinio and his representatives whilst negotiating this contract extension and what has shone through in every discussion is his affinity for the club and urge to contribute more going forward," he said. "Having shown a huge level of resilience to overcome a difficult start to life here after suffering a major injury, his mental toughness has been hugely commendable and he’s worked hard alongside our staff to get himself back in contention on a regular basis.
“An agreement structured in the interests of all concerned, everybody is happy if there is an in-form Radinio Balker available for Huddersfield Town each week. His range of skill isn’t typical of a defender at this level, and that turn of pace, comfort on the ball and ability to help us progress play gives our coaches real choice and flexibility in how they want to play."
Coach Martin Drury added: “He’s a well-liked character in the group by both staff and players, and his performances last season filled me with confidence that given the right support we can continue to see him improve moving forward.
“His qualities align with how we want to play and he will play a key part of how we look to develop that identity."