Nigeria U20 international Benjamin Fredrick has been named Brentford U21s Players’ Player of the Year after a standout season at the club, Footynaija.com reports.

The 19-year-old centre-back, who joined the Premier League side permanently from Nigerian club Simoiben FC last summer, has impressed both teammates and coaches since his arrival. Fredrick signed a four-year deal with the Bees, with an option to extend until 2029.

This season, Fredrick made 30 appearances across the Professional Development League (PDL) and domestic cup competitions, playing a central role in the team’s strong campaign.

Benjamin Fredrick has been voted by his fellow teammates to win the Under-21s Players’ Player of the Year Award #BrentfordFC pic.twitter.com/0a3HE6JD0y

— Brentford Academy (@BrentfordFCPDP) May 20, 2025

His most memorable performance came in the PDL playoff semi-final, where he scored a crucial goal against Sheffield United to help Brentford B reach the national final against Bournemouth.

His maturity, positional awareness and calmness on the ball have not gone unnoticed, with first-team boss Thomas Frank naming him in the senior matchday squad on four occasions — against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Bournemouth. Though yet to make his competitive debut, his regular involvement suggests that a first-team breakthrough could be on the horizon.

Fredrick was also on the bench for two Emirates FA Cup ties against Wolves last season.

Reacting to the award, Fredrick said: “I’m really pleased to be recognised by my team-mates. Obviously, being a player that has come from Nigeria, I’ve had to adapt, and I’m happy that the hard work I have put in is paying off. Next season, the plan is to try and make my debut for the first team.”

Born on May 28, 2005, Fredrick remains eligible for Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, with selections set to be announced later this year.

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