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Chennaiyin FC have announced that club captain Ryan Edwards has inked a one-year contract extension. The defender, who joined from Scottish club Dundee United in September last year, quickly became a fan favorite in Chennai after displaying consistent performances.
With this extension, Edwards becomes only the second foreign player to be retained by the club in the last four years, following Rafael Crivellaro. The 30-year-old featured in 25 matches across all competitions, scoring twice and providing an assist in his debut campaign in India.
Initially, Edwards took some time to settle into his new surroundings, with Owen Coyle not naming him in the starting lineup for the first two games where Chennaiyin FC suffered defeats against Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC.
However, following the first international break, he quickly established himself as a regular starter and was entrusted with the captain’s armband. Except one game where he was suspended due to a red card incident, Edwards started every match thereafter.
Beyond his individual performances, the Liverpool-born defender has been instrumental in elevating the performances of his teammates as well. Young players in the squad have credited his influence for playing a significant role in their own development.
Speaking to the Chennaiyin FC media after extending his stay, Ryan Edwards said:
"I’m looking forward to another season in ISL and after a good first step in qualifying for the playoffs, hopefully this time I can help lead the team towards winning some silverware."
"Ryan’s extension is already one of the biggest signings for the upcoming season" - Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle
Owen Coyle was eager to include Ryan Edwards in the Chennaiyin FC squad right from the beginning, but it took some time to finalize his inclusion for the season.
Nevertheless, Edwards has emerged as a pivotal figure for the head coach, who recognized the importance of his contributions on and off the field for the team.
Coyle expressed his satisfaction with Edwards’ extension, saying:
"Ryan’s extension is already one of the biggest signings for the upcoming season. It was important that we kept someone who knows what we’re doing at this club and where we want to take it. What often goes unnoticed as well is that he’s loved by everyone at the club and the boys look to him as the leadership figure in the dressing room. I truly believe he can grow as a captain and a player at Chennaiyin. "
In addition to securing Edwards’ contract extension, numerous reports suggest that the club are already active in the transfer market. According to these reports, Jamshedpur FC’s defenders Laldinpuia and Elsinho Dias have reportedly agreed to join the Marina Machans, while rumors also suggest that a deal for Gurkirat Singh is close to being finalized.
It was certainly a memorable season for Chennaiyin FC, who secured a playoff spot for the first time in four years. With potential additions on the horizon, it appears they are on the brink of further strengthening under Owen Coyle.
