Lincoln City defender Lewis Montsma says he believes he is getting back to his best after signing a multi-year contract at the club.
The 26-year-old suffered an ACL injury in January 2022 which eventually ruled him out for 13 months. Returning to the squad in February 2023, Montsma then suffered a repeat a month later causing him to miss the entirety of the 2023/24 campaign.
Despite missing two years of action, Lincoln stuck by the centre-back and offered him a short-term six-month deal in July. Their loyalty has been rewarded in recent weeks, with the former FC Dordrecht man becoming a regular across Michael Skubala’s back line.
Fine Performances Lead To New Deal
Montsma has started six of the last eight league games for Lincoln, helping keep a clean sheet in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Reading. Imps supporters made their feelings known after the game, chanting ‘sign him up’ to head coach Skubala.
Their wishes were granted last night when the club announced the Dutchman had penned a phased, multi-year contract which could keep him at the LNER Stadium until 2027. Speaking to official club media following the announcement, the defender 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.
“The club and fans have stuck right behind me – we know the potential in this group and I’m really looking forward to what is ahead.”
Writer’s View
This is a fantastic early Christmas present for Lincoln supporters. There were doubts that Montsma would be able to return to the level he was prior to his two injuries, but recent weeks have shown that he is certainly on the right path. On his day, there are few better centre-backs in League One and if he can maintain his fitness, he could be a real asset to the Imps’ push for a play-off place.
