HOILETT SIGNS NEW CARDIFF DEAL
BOOST FOR CITY AS CANADIAN STAR AGREES THREE-YEAR CONTRACT
JUNIOR Hoilett last night provided Cardiff City with a huge boost after committing his future to the Bluebirds, signing a new threeyear contract.
The Canadian’s future has been in doubt with reports that he could reject the Bluebirds’ offer of an improved deal and join Stoke City.
But the club have announced Hoilett has put pen to paper and will line up for Neil Warnock’s side in the Premier League season.
He has extended his stay in the Welsh capital until 2021 having thrived since being signed on a free transfer by Warnock in October 2016 – becoming a virtual ever-present in the City side.
Hoilett scored nine goals and laid on 11 assists to propel the Bluebirds to promotion last term.
“It feels amazing to finally sign the new deal,” said Hoilett.
“It was always going to happen though. I want to continue my career here and never wanted to go anywhere else. I want to go on and achieve more things in the Premier League with a great group of lads.
“The fans have supported me so much since I’ve been here. I have so much respect for them and it was a no-brainer to stay here and continue that great relationship.
“I’d like to thank Vincent Tan, Ken Choo, Mehmet Dalman, the board and the gaffer for their support and look forward to our future together at this great club.”
It comes as a huge boost for Warnock amid his summer transfer search.
With another winger in Josh Murphy already signed, plus Greg Cunningham and another signing in Alex Smithies on the horizon , the Bluebirds’ Premier League squad is starting to take shape.
Cardiff have also been linked with loan deals for Marko Grujic and Robert Snodgrass and await a contract decision from Iceland World Cup star Aron Gunnarson.
Warnock said: “Junior had a fantastic season for us last year and I think his new contract is just rewards for that.
“I think he’s looking forward to the challenge next season and I’m sure he’ll play a major role in helping us try to stay in the Premier League.”
Bluebirds executive director and CEO Ken Choo said: “We’re delighted that Junior has committed to Cardiff City FC for the next three years.
“It was always our intention to secure Junior’s future at the earliest opportunity this summer and now we can look forward to seeing him in a Cardiff City shirt in the Premier League.
“I have a lot of admiration for Junior: as a player and a person.
“He’s somebody who has never given less than 100 per cent for our club and we think very highly of him.”