Sydney FC have promoted young striker Charles Lokolingoy to the Sky Blues Hyundai A-League roster for the remainder of the 2016/17 season, the club confirmed today.

The 19 year old, who emigrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo aged 11, and represented the Sutherland Sharks before emerging through the youth ranks of the Sky Blues, had previously been on a Hyundai A-League scholarship contract prior to his promotion.

The towering centre forward enjoyed a strong Foxtel National Youth League 2016/17 season, helping guide the Sky Blues to consecutive Grand Finals, following on from a phenomenal PlayStation 4 NPL 2 season in 2016, where he finished as the league’s top scorer with 27 goals in 28 games, including finals series.

The Young Socceroo said he was excited to continue his progression with Sydney FC in the Hyundai A-League under Head Coach Graham Arnold.

“I’m very happy to have received this contract, there’s a lot of hard work ahead but I’m really excited for the club to have given me this opportunity,” he said.

“I still have a lot to learn in the game, everyday I’m learning in training with the attacking players and I’m trying to learn as much as I can so when I get the chance I can perform.

“The boys are all very supportive, I feel more comfortable every day. My goals now are to continue being fit, you never know when you could get the call up, keep working hard and hopefully get some minutes in before the end of the season.”

Head Coach Graham Arnold praised the young attacker for his endeavours with the Young Sky Blues, saying his promotion was a just reward.

“Charles is a fantastic young, attacker with all the qualities to excel in the game,” Arnold said.

“I’ve seen a steady improvement in his game during his time training with the first team, he’s had an exceptional year with our NPL and Youth League squads, and he’ll continue to improve now that he’s a permanent member of our first team environment.”

Meanwhile Sky Blues defender Riley Woodcock has been granted a release to pursue other career opportunities. The club would like to thank Riley for his hard work over the last two seasons and wishes him and his family all the best for the future.

Sydney FC return to Hyundai A-League action away to Melbourne City on Friday 24 February at AAMI Park (kick off 7:50pm). Catch the match live on Fox Sports or follow @SydneyFC on Twitter for updates.

Sydney FC Finals Run Flexi Now Available – Choice of any 3 of the last 4 home matches from $40 for Juniors and $75 for Adults. Visit www.sydneyfc.com/finalsrunflexi