Fulham have announced Denis Odoi has signed a two-year contract extension, with the option of a further 12 months.
The one cap Belgian international started the club’s Premier League opener against Arsenal on Saturday after making 37 appearances last term as Fulham earned promotion.
Odoi is in his fifth season at Craven Cottage and has made 134 appearances for the Londoners.
Some Fulham supporters might argue the club needs to sign a replacement for the 31-year-old.
They could justify that claim by pointing out Odoi played 31 times in Fulham’s last Premier League stint and was a key part of a defence that conceded a league-high 81 goals.
However, that wouldn’t be fair on the versatile defender.
While it is normal to strive for more, Fulham have made a fine decision in rewarding Odoi for his hard work. In turn, it looks as if they’re learning from their top-flight period under Slaviša Jokanovic.
Under the Serbian, Fulham failed to reward such commitment.
Instead, they spent more than £100 million on new recruits. Marcus Bettinelli, who was dropped from the first matchday squad of the campaign in favour of new signings Fabri and Sergio Rico, is a prime example of poor treatment at the previous regime.
Under Scott Parker, however, things look different.
Yes, Odoi perhaps isn’t the colossal defender Fulham fans are crying out for but he’s a fine character who carries out ambassadorial work for the Fulham FC Foundation and deserves to be treated with respect.
Fulham FC statement
The Club is delighted to announce that Denis Odoi has agreed a contract extension.
The defender has put pen to paper on an additional two years, with an option for a further 12 months. The new deal will keep Denis at the Club until at least the summer of 2022.
Upon signing, Odoi told FFCtv: “I’m happy, as it’s given me this season and next season guaranteed at the Club. I’m enjoying my life here, so I’m really happy that I can stay here an extra two years.”
Tony Khan added: “I’m glad to announce that Denis has signed a contact extension to stay with Fulham for at least two more years. Denis has played a big part in both of our promotions in the past few years, and he is a great competitor with a tremendous work ethic so I’m very pleased to extend his contract. Come on Fulham!”
A versatile member of the squad, Odoi played an integral part as Fulham won promotion back to the Premier League last season.
The Belgian, who has now been promoted twice with the Club, has made 134 appearances for the Whites, making his debut in memorable fashion in 2016 versus Newcastle United. A sublime piece of skill to control the ball off his back on a marauding attack up the right wing a taster of what was to come.
Now in his fifth season, Odoi’s presence off the pitch is as influential as it is on, with his regular ambassadorial work for the Fulham FC Foundation an example of his character.