Scouting report as Huddersfield Town announce Ruben Roosken transfer

The left-back will become part of Michael Duff's squad when the January transfer window opens

Huddersfield Town have announced the signing of Dutch left-back Ruben Roosken in a permanent move from Eredivisie side Heracles.

Roosken, 24, has signed a two and a half year deal at the John Smith’s Stadium, and will officially become a Town player upon the opening of the January transfer window on New Year’s Day, subject to his work permit being accepted.

The Terriers were keen to sign a player for that role after Mickel Miller was ruled out until spring with a knee injury he suffered last month.

Town will face Wigan on New Year’s Day, and Roosken’s eligibility to appear in that game will depend in part upon whether his work permit is approved in time.

Town head coach Michael Duff said in a club statement: “I’m really happy to have Ruben join the squad, and I’m looking forward to start working with him at the start of the New Year when his transfer is complete.

“We’ve made no secret of the areas of the pitch we felt needed to be addressed, and the left side was one following Mickel’s injury, so to have a top quality addition at the first possible opportunity is a huge bonus. Capable of playing the type of football we aspire to, Ruben feels like a good fit for our group.

“Ruben will bring fresh impetus and energy to our squad, adding to our competition for places. He’ll need to earn his place as everyone else does, and that’s a challenge we’re excited to see how he takes on right from his very first day and session alongside us.”

Sporting director Mark Cartwright added: “We’re delighted to have got this signing over the line and underline our good form with the intent to improve in the window to come.

“Ruben is a player we spoke to about possibly joining in the summer, and despite all discussions being positive, the window moved in different directions for both parties at the time, which is often the case.

“A position we knew we wanted to strengthen in, getting business done early in the window helps us maintain momentum and give Ruben the best chance possible of getting up to speed with his new coaches and teammates, with plenty of important football still to come.

“Having beaten interest from the Sky Bet Championship to secure Ruben’s services, it’s been clear to us that he sees the potential of what we’re trying to build and wants to be part of that journey, and we’re confident that he can make a real contribution in the second half of the season.”

Roosken said: “It is really exciting to join such a big club, and I am looking forward to joining the positive fight this season after watching on with interest since the summer.

“This feels like the correct move for me and my career. I am an ambitious player and person and I felt that same passion to succeed from every I spoke to before signing, and the good form of the team shows how much is possible for us.

“Joining from 1st January gives me a perfect start to the New Year, and I am counting the days until I get started with my new team and meet the supporters I have heard so much about, too!”

Scouting report: Ruben Roosken

It was clear that Town needed a left-back in the January transfer window even before Miller’s injury. His lengthy lay-off only underscored the urgency of that need. Thankfully, Roosken looks to be a capable replacement with a similar skill set.