Benjamin Frederick has officially joined the team's first team squad and signed a new four-year contract.

Brentford have officially announced the signing of Nigerian international defender Benjamin Frederick to their first-team squad for the 2026/27 Premier League season. The 21-year-old defender has also signed a four-year contract extension with the club, including an option to extend for another year.

During the preseason training phase, Benjamin Frederick has officially joined the first team under Keith Andrews and is participating in the team's preparations. Head coach Keith Andrews said: "We are delighted to see Benjamin Frederick sign a contract extension and officially join the first team program. He has outstanding potential, and we believe the club can provide a good environment for his development and help him further improve his playing ability."

“Benjamin Frederick has already gained experience at the senior national team level and played an important role in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers. Last season, he performed very well on loan in the Belgian league, showing promising potential for growth, but unfortunately, he had to end that experience early due to injury at the end.”

“At this stage, the most important thing for Benjamin Frederick is to adapt to the pace of the first team as soon as possible. His last official match was in mid-November last year, after which he underwent a long recovery period due to injury. Next, he needs to integrate into the team's daily training, find his place in the competition, and demonstrate the strength and personal qualities that we have always recognized.”

Speaking about Benjamin Frederick's contract extension and promotion to the first team, Brentford B manager Sam Saunders said: "Benjamin Frederick has been an outstanding player since his first day with the B team. His growth has been gratifying, and I am incredibly proud of the progress he has made at Brentford and delighted to see him reach even greater heights."

“Benjamin Frederick has a very positive personality and is an easy-going and receptive young player. He has the potential to become an excellent player, and despite his young age, he has already shown impressive confidence and courage. He performs exceptionally well in one-on-one defense and continues to improve.”

“Benjamin Frederick has proven himself capable of representing the national team and performing at a high level on the international stage. Therefore, we are very much looking forward to his future development and believe that he has even greater potential for growth.”

After signing a new four-year contract and officially being promoted to Brentford's first team, Benjamin Frederick spoke about his journey. The young defender expressed his gratitude to Neil McFarlane, who previously managed Brentford B and is now the first team's assistant coach, and reflected on his growth and progress at the club since arriving in West London on loan in August 2023.

Benjamin Frederick said: “I am very happy to have reached this moment and proud of the progress I have made. My family is also very proud of me. Since coming to Brentford, the club has given me a lot of help. At the beginning, I was a little nervous and reserved because the football environment here is different from the places I am used to, and I need to relearn and adapt to many details.”

“Neil, in particular, gave me a lot of support when I first came to the club. When I made mistakes, he never criticized or blamed me, but encouraged me to stay focused and keep playing. He helped me make great progress in both my football skills and personal growth. Now, I hope to maintain a learning attitude every day and continue to improve myself. My goal is to make my first-team debut, earn a chance to play in the Premier League, and prove my ability in my moment.”

Image source: Internet/Brentford official website