Lincoln City have delivered an “early Christmas present”, sealing Lewis Montsma’s signature on a new contract.
The defender has signed a phased, multi-year contract extension with the Sky Bet League One side, which could keep him at the club until the summer of 2027.
Return from injury:
The announcement, made on Lincoln City’s website just before Christmas, comes after an impressive return for Montsma following his serious knee injury in March 2023.
He has now made 13 senior appearances this season, and has shown the injury track record has been put firmly behind him.
The Dutch centre-back first moved to Lincolnshire in the summer of 2020 and said he was delighted to be remaining at the club.
It has been made clear that Montsma’s game time and competitive minutes still need to be monitored and kept under control. City’s director of football Jez George noted that it was the “incredible” commitment of head coach Michael Skubala to the medical guidance that has been key.
What has been said?
Lewis Montsma said: “It has been a long road but the club have shown a lot of trust in me and, with some real hard work, it has worked out.
“I’ve had a lot of help to get here from everyone at the club, particularly the medical team, along with my family and the supporters. I’ve not been available as much as I’d have liked but everyone has been right behind me.
“Easing me back into it with one game a week was right for me and I feel I am getting back to my best. I feel fitter and better after every game, and just want to keep this run going.”
Jez George, Imps director of football, added: “This is a momentous day for Lewis and his family. It is also testament to his incredible hard work, resilience, determination and character. Lewis’s mental toughness has been incredible to witness and this contract means that we now have time to help Lewis get back to his very best in a Lincoln City shirt.
“I am sure this will be the perfect Christmas present for all Imps fans who can now look forward to watching Lewis throughout 2025 and beyond.”
Good news for Lincoln City – Opinion:
In my view, this is great news for Lincoln City.
Lewis Montsma has impressed when he has played this season, and has proven himself since his latest injury setback. The Dutchman has been an important cog in the Imps’ defensive machine, and has provided sturdiness and solidity when needed at the back.
He has even been useful in the attacking third, providing an assist as Lincoln ended their winless league run against Reading in their most recent game.
Rumours were beginning to swirl, and people like me were starting to write opinion articles on Lincoln’s need to re-sign Montsma, but that is all over now. City have done well to secure the defender’s immediate future, continuing to help his rehabilitation going forward.
On his day, Lewis Montsma is a fantastic League One defender, and long may that continue at the LNER Stadium.