Joni Kauko


Joni Kauko is a Finnish professional football midfielder who plays for Danish Superliga club Esbjerg fB, and represents Finland national team. Kauko was born in Turku, Finland where he played for the local youth teams before starting his senior career in Inter Turku at age 17 in 2008.
Kauko made his international debut for Finland in January 2012, at the age of 21. He was a regular member of the team that won League C group 2 in 2018–19 UEFA Nations League.

Club career

Inter Turku

A product of local Inter Turku's youth system, Kauko signed his professional contract on 27 November 2007 at the age of 17. He made his Veikkausliiga debut six months later on 26 June 2008 against IFK Mariehamn. During his first season with the Turku-based club, he made only eight appearances, but helped his team to win the Finnish championship. He scored his first senior goal for Inter on 3 May 2009 against MYPA.

FC Lahti

After representing Inter for five seasons, his contract was not renewed after the 2012 season and he signed with FC Lahti for one season.

FSV Frankfurt

Six months after signing with Lahti, it was announced that Kauko had signed a two-year contract with an option to a third, with German 2. Bundesliga side FSV Frankfurt.

FC Energie Cottbus

Upon expiry of his contract with FSV Frankfurt Kauko signed a two-year contract with German 3. Liga side FC Energie Cottbus.

Randers

In July 2016, Kauko signed a two-year contract with Danish club Randers FC.

Esbjerg

On 28 June 2018, Kauko signed a contract with Esbjerg fB for 2018–19 Danish Superliga.

International career

Finland youth teams

Kauko was a regular member for the Finland's U21 during 2009–2012, making in total of 23 appearances and scoring three goals. He has also served as a captain for the Finland U-21 team.

Finland first team

He made his senior debut on 22 January 2012, in a friendly against Trinidad and Tobago. During Finland's qualification campaign for the UEFA Euro 2016 he was a member of the team in 8 matches but remained as an unused substitute. In 2018–19 UEFA Nations League he gained four caps and was in the starting line up on 15 November 2018 in a match against Greece.

Career statistics

Club

International

Honours and achievements

Club

;Inter Turku
;FC Lahti