All Whites midfielder Elijah Just secures move to Swansea City
All Whites midfielder Elijah Just has completed a move to Swansea City in the English Championship. The winger signed a three-year deal with an option to extend for an additional 12 months. His transfer fee was reported by British media to be around £6 million (NZ$13.8 million).
Motherwell FC, Just’s former club in the Scottish Premiership, confirmed they received a club-record fee for the 26-year-old‘s transfer. However, the exact amount will remain undisclosed under the terms of the agreement with Swansea.
Just’s move follows a notable performance at the recent World Cup, where he scored three goals. His opening goal against Iran was nominated for Goal of the Tournament, and he also became the first All White to score a brace in a single World Cup match. He scored two goals against Iran and one against Belgium, making him the highest-scoring Kiwi in tournament history.
Impact at Swansea and Previous Form
At Swansea City, Just will wear the number 8 jersey. Head coach Vitor Matos expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, noting Just’s versatility and ability to play in multiple positions. Matos stated that Just’s performance in the recruitment process and his showing at the World Cup made him a valuable addition.
Sporting director Ben Stevens echoed these sentiments, highlighting Just’s “phenomenal World Cup” and his standout season with Motherwell. Stevens believes Just’s profile aligns well with the club’s footballing style and sees the move as an exciting opportunity for all involved parties.
Just had a strong debut season with Motherwell, where he was shortlisted for PFA Scotland’s Premiership Player of the Year and won Motherwell’s Player of the Season award. In an Instagram message to Motherwell FC, Just conveyed the deep significance the club holds for him.
Joining Fellow Kiwis in the Championship
Just will join fellow All White Marko Stamenić at Swansea. Stamenić was a key player for Swansea last season, scoring three goals and assisting two across 36 appearances. Just mentioned that he and Stamenić have spoken frequently, with Stamenić providing insights into the club and its playing style.
The move adds Just to a growing contingent of New Zealand players in the Championship. Other Kiwis in the league include defender Liberato Cacace, who plays for Wrexham, and goalkeeper Max Crocombe at Millwall. Defender Tyler Bindon also spent a year on loan with Sheffield United in the league.
Swansea City competes in the EFL Championship, which is the second tier of English football. The club finished 11th in the standings last season. Like several professional teams in Wales, Swansea participates in England’s leagues and has previously played in the Premier League.
Just expressed his eagerness for the move, stating, “I can’t wait, it’s something I’ve wanted to do in my whole career.” He added that he has watched many Championship games and looks forward to contributing to the team.
The club has minority owners including American rapper Snoop Dogg, Croatian football legend Luka Modrić, and US lifestyle personality Martha Stewart. Just’s deal is subject to relevant approval.
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Source: rnz.co.nz
