Cambridge United

Cambridge United have immediately moved to extend Josh Coulson’s contract by an additional 12 months, following the news that the defender has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2016/17 season.

The 27-year old sustained a serious ankle ligament injury in the club’s Sky Bet League Two fixture with Wycombe Wanderers last month, which requires surgery that will not see the centre-back fit until the start of pre-season.

The extended deal means Coulson will continue to represent the U’s until at least the end of the 2017/18 campaign.

Cambridge United CEO Jez George commented: “This is the right thing to do for Josh.  This is his 11th season with the Club, his tenth as a professional footballer, and during that time he has represented Cambridge United impeccably, on and off the pitch.  

“Josh is respected by everyone at the Club, rightly popular with the supporters, and synonymous with Cambridge United within our local community.

“He can now concentrate fully on his rehab once he undergoes surgery without worrying about his immediate future.  This is also his testimonial year, and whilst the Club will be hosting a dinner on his behalf at the end of the season, which we will publicise in the New Year, this means that we can postpone his Testimonial Match for when he will be fit at the start of next season.”    

Meanwhile Coulson, the U’s longest serving current player, added: “Obviously I’m gutted that my season is over but want to thank everyone at the Club for looking after me at this tough time.

“It means a lot to me and my family to have been offered a new contract, and we are thankful to the people at the Club who have made this happen. I can now concentrate on getting my ankle right and returning to fitness as soon as possible to repay their loyalty. 

“Finally I would like to publicly say how grateful I am to all the supporters who have wished me well in the last three weeks. It truly means a lot.”