Reaction as Nigel Lonwijk joins Huddersfield Town

The centre-back has arrived on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers

Huddersfield Town have announced Wolverhampton Wanderers centre-back Nigel Lonwijk as their latest arrival of the summer transfer window, with the Dutchman arriving on a season-long loan.

A PSV academy prospect before being plucked away by Wolves, Lonwijk arrives with League One loan experience already under his belt having played 35 times in Plymouth’s title-winning 2022/23 campaign and turned out for Wycombe in the second half of last season.

The 21-year-old defender offers head coach Michael Duff an additional ball-playing option for the back line following the loss of Radinio Balker to an fractured ankle during pre-season, which is expected to keep him out until the new year.

Duff said in a club statement: “Nigel is a very interesting option for us at centre back, adding to the good defenders already in our squad.

“His loan spells in senior football – particularly in League One – have steeled him to what’s needed defensively at this level, and that robustness adds to the pace and mobility he naturally offers.

“He’s also very adept at getting on the ball and playing forward with tempo off both feet, which makes him able to play on the left or right of a back three.

“I’m looking forward to working with him on the training pitch in the coming weeks and months.”

Town sporting director Mark Cartwright added: “I’m delighted that we can welcome Nigel to the club today, as he had several Sky Bet Championship clubs interested in his signature too.

“He has a very interesting profile as a player. Firstly, he adds some important qualities back into our team and squad after the unfortunate long-term injury suffered by Radinio Balker.

“Just as importantly, he has experience of what it takes to be successful in our division through the part he played in Plymouth Argyle’s title-winning season. Michael has talked extensively about changing the culture of the club, and you cannot have too many winners in your squad.

“Our thanks to Wolves, who have been excellent to deal with on Nigel’s loan, and to our owner Mr Nagle for his continued support.”

Lonwijk said: “I’m happy to join such a big club. With the goals they have this season, I’m happy to be here to help the team. 

“It’s very exciting, as the team is on such a good streak already. We just want to keep it going and keep winning games.”

Lonwijk joins Lasse Sorensen, Mickel Miller, Antony Evans, Herbie Kane and Callum Marshall in having made the move to the John Smith’s Stadium this summer.

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We Are Terriers reaction

The Shrewsbury game at the weekend made clear why Town wanted a player of Lonwijk’s profile, particularly after losing Balker in pre-season.