Defender Jerry Lalrinzuala has signed a contract extension with Chennaiyin FC, the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) club announced on Thursday. After joining the Marina Machans prior to the 2016 campaign, the 22-year-old defender has gone on to make 57 appearances for the Chennaiyin in the league and played a key role in the club’s Hero ISL 2017-18 title triumph.

“I am very happy to have extended my time at Chennaiyin after another memorable season last time out. My journey with the club so far has been an incredible learning experience; everyone associated with it over the years has molded me into the footballer I am today. I can’t wait to wear the CFC jersey again and continue fighting for our passionate supporters. Looking ahead, I hope my fifth season at the club results in five-star achievements,” Jerry said after extending his stay with Chennaiyin.

The talented left-back from Mizoram has become a fan-favourite for the Marina Machans after making his debut under their head coach at the time, Marco Materazzi. He scored one goal and provided two assists from 13 appearances in his debut campaign and won the Hero ISL Emerging Player of the Season award at the end of the season.

“Jerry is a fantastic talent whose qualities have been nurtured at Chennaiyin FC over the years. We are incredibly proud to see the progress he has made, becoming a tenacious and gritty presence who has been a vital component of our recent success. And we are excited to see him developing further and contributing to the club’s ambitions,” said Mrs Vita Dani, co-owner of Chennaiyin FC.

Jerry is also a full Indian international and has represented the country across multiple age-groups. He made his senior debut for the Blue Tigers against Nepal in a friendly in June 2017. With valuable experience garnered at a relatively young age, Jerry will be aiming to take his game to newer heights for club and country in the years to come.