‘A dream come true’ – Crystal Palace goalkeeper pens new long-term extension

Crystal Palace have announced that academy goalkeeper Joe Whitworth has signed a new contract extension with the club.

Our paper reported in November that Whitworth had agreed a new five-year deal with the South Londoners.

Whitworth has played 180 minutes for the Eagles’ U21 team this season in the EFL Trophy and featured against Swindon, Bristol Rovers and Plymouth.

The England U19 keeper has been third choice this season for the Eagles. 

Palace also recently tied down fellow academy stopper Owen Goodman to a new long-term deal.

After signing his new deal, Whitworth said: “Signing this new contract extension means the world to me and my family, especially as they’re all Palace fans.

“It’s a dream come true to sign this new deal and I’m really looking forward to getting my head down and working hard in the future.”

Academy Director Gary Issott added: “Joe’s been at the Academy since the age of 13 and has put in a number of outstanding performances throughout the years. He has really worked hard to earn this contract extension.

“He’s one of a number of players who have now committed their long-term future to the club and this is great news. It shows how committed the owners and the club are to retaining and improving the best young talent.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD