Burton Albion winger Tomas Kalinauskas has joined Dutch side Roda JC Kerkrade on loan until the end of the season as he looks to gain regular first-team football and continue his development.
The 21-year-old departs the Pirelli Stadium on a temporary basis, with Burton Albion retaining his long-term registration.
The move is designed to provide Kalinauskas with consistent minutes in a competitive European league, offering a valuable opportunity to accelerate his progress during the second half of the season.
Kalinasukas began his journey at Burton Albion in the 2024/25 season, signing from Dutch side FC Den Bosch following a previous stint at EFL side AFC Wimbledon.
During his first season with the Brewers, the Lithuanian made 43 appearances over the course of the season, scoring two goals and assisting on three occasions.
However, this campaign the winger has only made one appearance, showing why this move will offer Kalinauskas valuable minutes.
A loan move to Roda JC Kerkrade provides Kalinauskas with exposure to a different footballing culture. Dutch football places a strong emphasis on technical quality, positional intelligence, and attacking movement, all areas that suit the wingers profile.
Roda JC also have a track record of developing young attacking players and integrating loanees into their match day squads.
From Burton Albion’s perspective, the Tomas Kulinauskas loan represents a strategic development move rather than a short-term squad decision.
Regular football in the Netherlands should help sharpen his decision-making, physical conditioning, and confidence in attacking situations.
When Kalinauskas return at the end of the season, the Brewers will hope he comes back better equipped to challenge for a regular role in the first team.
As he begins his new chapter with Roda JC Kerkrade, Burton Albion supporters should be keeping a close eye on his progress abroad, viewing this loan as an important step in his long-term development.
