The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Ex-Dee ace Cummings dazzles A-League and courts the Socceroos
Former Dundee striker Jason Cummings has signed a contract extension with Central Coast Mariners in Australia after lighting up the A-League.
The 26-year-old has committed himself to the Aussie side until 2024, saying that the move Down Under has “turned my career around” after leaving the Dark Blues.
Cummings left Dens Park in January this year after playing an integral part in the side’s Premiership promotion.
He left the side as the club’s leading scorer following a high-profile discipline breach.
Despite joining the Mariners halfway through their season, Cummings netted 10 goals in 21 appearances and finished the season as top marksman at his new side.
The striker’s performances saw him selected for the A-League All-Stars team who faced Barcelona.
Cummings’ life changed completely.
He has also been touted for a call-up to the Australian international team.
For now, Cummings is just focused on bagging more goals for his club.
“I absolutely love playing my football here on the Central Coast,” he told the Mariners’ website.
“Since moving from Scotland in January, my life has completely changed and I am very thankful for the Mariners to make that happen.
“I am delighted to sign another year’s extension on my deal here and give back to the club which has turned my career around.
“Throughout the rest of my time here, I will continue to give 100% for this club and its fans and I can’t wait to have a full season under my belt and challenge for the league’s golden boot.”
Mariners manager Nick Montgomery said his striker had attracted interest from other clubs and was delighted to have secured his man for another year.
“Jason brings a lot to this team both on and off the field,” he said.
“Since his arrival in January, he rejuvenated the changing room but more importantly, proved his worth on the field too.
“With Jason’s performances and goals attracting serious interest from overseas clubs, as well as proving doubters wrong and making a real case for a Socceroos call-up, we are delighted that he has signed the extension.
“It’s a massive boost for the club that he has shown loyalty to stay with the Mariners as he has full belief of the direction the club is heading in.
“What he brings to this squad is experience and intelligence.
“To have a striker of his value and worth at the Mariners for another two years will do great things for the game in this region and also this country.”