Jay Fulton signs new Swansea City contract through to 2026

Swansea City midfielder Jay Fulton has signed a new contract to extend his stay with the club through to the summer of 2026.

The Scot, the longest-serving player in the first-team squad having joined the Swans in January 2014, had been due to see his previous deal expire at the end of June 2024.

But his new contract will potentially see him reach a dozen years in Swansea colours, with Fulton having recently made his 200th appearance for the club.

He has enjoyed an outstanding 2022-23 season, dovetailing superbly with captain Matt Grimes in the middle of the park.

Fulton joined the Swans from Falkirk and made his first appearance as a substitute in the 4-1 win over Aston Villa back in April 2014, before making his maiden start in the final game of the season away at Sunderland. 

He played five games during the 2014-15 campaign, and then spent time on loan with Oldham at the start of the 2015-16 season, before featuring for the Swans in victories over Arsenal and Liverpool before the end of the campaign. 

He clocked up 19 appearances over the next couple of the seasons, while also featuring six times during a loan spell with Wigan Athletic in the second half of the latter term, helping them cause an upset by knocking Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City out of the FA Cup.

Upon his return to SA1, Fulton racked up 38 games during the 2018-19 campaign and went on to play 39 times the following season - making his 100th appearance along the way and scoring three goals.

He continued to play an integral part in the two play-off campaigns, making 39 and 47 appearances respectively in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons.

Fulton made 21 appearances last term owing to the form of Flynn Downes, but has made one of the midfield slots his own with 36 outings and four goals so far this campaign. 

In total, he has scored 14 goals in 205 Swansea appearances. 

"It's really positive news for the club," said head coach Russell Martin. "Jay has been such a big player for us this season, both on and off the pitch.

"He's a brilliant pro and a great character. He's also really flexible in terms of his positioning on the pitch, he's done a few things for us this season and each one he has done with unbelievable commitment and dedication.

"He's a really good player to have here, he cares deeply about the club and the city. He was really keen to stay here, and we were really keen to get it all done so I'm pleased it's sorted.

"Last season was tough for him but we've always had a great relationship. This year he has come back with a different mentality and he's been one of our top players this season.

"In terms of age, continuity, understanding of the club and what we are trying to do, it's so important, and this is a really big move for him and for the club."

Head of football operations, Josh Marsh, added: "We are delighted that Jay has extended his stay with us because he has been one of our standout and most consistent performers this season.

"He is an experienced player in what is a young squad, and has experience of what it takes to compete at the top end of the Championship and in the Premier League, which is really valuable to us. 

"As with all contractual situations, all parties need to play their part and Jay demonstrated a real desire to want to stay at Swansea City, which matched our intention in wanting to commit to a long-term contract. 

"This is the first positive action as we approach what is a really important off-season for the club."