Brentford have rewarded Nigeria defender Benjamin Fredrick with a new long-term contract that will keep him at the Premier League club until 2030, while promoting him to the first-team squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The 21-year-old centre-back, who has joined Keith Andrews’ senior squad for pre-season, signed a four-year extension with the club holding the option to extend the agreement by an additional year.
Fredrick said his immediate ambition is to establish himself in the first team and make his Premier League debut.
“My aim is to make my debut with the first team, get Premier League minutes and give my best when I have the opportunity,” he said.
“I just want to keep pushing and learning every single day.”
Brentford back Fredrick’s development
Fredrick expressed gratitude to Brentford for helping him settle after arriving in England, admitting the adjustment was challenging during his early days at the club.
“It is a great feeling. I am happy and proud of myself, and my family are proud of me as well,” he said.
“The club has helped me a lot. When I came here, I was a little bit nervous and shy. Neil (MacFarlane) always encouraged me, never shouted when I made mistakes and just told me to keep my head down and keep playing. He has helped me grow as a player and a person as well.”
Head coach Keith Andrews believes the Nigerian has the qualities to succeed at the highest level.
“We are delighted that Benji has signed a new deal and is going to be part of the group this season because we see a lot of potential in him,” Andrews said.
Injury setback behind him
Fredrick joined Brentford’s B team on loan in 2023 before completing a permanent move the following year after impressing with his performances.
The former Nasarawa United defender was named Brentford B Players’ Player of the Year in 2025 and later made his senior debut for Nigeria.
He spent last season on loan at Belgian side FCV Dender, making 15 appearances before a knee injury ended his campaign prematurely.
Now fully recovered, Fredrick will be aiming to break into Brentford’s first team while continuing to establish himself as a regular member of the Super Eagles squad.