Just's Professional Football Career Journey
From the youth academies of New Zealand to the competitive leagues of Europe, the career of Just is a testament to steady progression and athletic growth. His journey began with a commitment to development, moving from Palmerston North to join the Olé Football Academy under the guidance of Declan Edge.
Early Success in New Zealand
Just began his competitive path with Western Suburbs in the Central League, a competition featuring teams from the lower half of New Zealand's North Island. During his tenure, he achieved significant success, contributing to the team's Central League title win in 2017 and securing a runner-up finish in the 2018 Chatham Cup.
In 2018, Just's talent earned him a trial with the Dutch club PEC Zwolle. Although the club acknowledged his skill level was sufficient for a professional contract, a deal was not reached due to Dutch regulations regarding non-EU salaries, which PEC Zwolle found prohibitively expensive at the time.
Following this, Just joined Eastern Suburbs, where he played a pivotal role in the team winning the New Zealand Football Championship. This victory qualified the club for the OFC Champions League. Just concluded that season with an impressive record of 7 goals across 20 appearances.
Transition to European Football
The European chapter of Just's career began in May 2019, when FC Helsingør announced his signing, with the player officially joining the club on July 1.
After several seasons of development, Just moved to AC Horsens on July 1, 2022, following a sale by FC Helsingør. His journey through Europe continued on August 21, 2024, when he joined the Austrian 2. Liga side SKN St. Pölten on a season-long loan that included an option for the club to buy his contract permanently.
Rise in the United Kingdom
On July 9, 2025, Just made a significant move to the Scottish Premiership, signing a two-year contract with Motherwell for an undisclosed fee. His impact was immediate; during his debut season, he was shortlisted for the prestigious PFA Scotland's Premiership Player of the Year award.
Building on his success in Scotland, Just signed a three-year contract with Swansea City of the EFL Championship on July 22, 2026, marking his entry into one of England's most competitive professional tiers.
Key Facts
- Academy: Trained at Olé Football Academy under Declan Edge.
- NZ Honors: Central League winner (2017) and NZ Football Championship winner.
- European Clubs: FC Helsingør, AC Horsens, and SKN St. Pölten.
- UK Success: Shortlisted for PFA Scotland's Premiership Player of the Year at Motherwell.
- Current Club: Swansea City (signed July 2026).
| Year/Date | Club/Academy | League/Competition | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Career | Western Suburbs | Central League | 2017 League Winner |
| 2018 | Eastern Suburbs | NZ Football Championship | League Winner; 7 goals in 20 games |
| 2019 | FC Helsingør | Denmark | First European move |
| 2022 | AC Horsens | Denmark | Transferred from FC Helsingør |
| 2024 | SKN St. Pölten | Austrian 2. Liga | Season-long loan |
| 2025 | Motherwell | Scottish Premiership | PFA Player of the Year nominee |
| 2026 | Swansea City | EFL Championship | Three-year contract |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't Just sign with PEC Zwolle?
Although PEC Zwolle deemed him good enough for a contract, Dutch rules required the club to pay a non-EU salary, which was too expensive for the club at that time.
How did Just perform at Eastern Suburbs?
Just was part of the championship-winning team that qualified for the OFC Champions League, contributing 7 goals in 20 matches.
What recognition did Just receive in Scotland?
During his debut season with Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership, Just was shortlisted for the PFA Scotland's Premiership Player of the Year award.
When did Just join Swansea City?
Just signed a three-year contract with the EFL Championship club on July 22, 2026.
Which academy did Just attend?
Just attended the Olé Football Academy, which was run by Declan Edge.