the doorman Owen Goodman has signed a contract extension with Crystal Palace’s U-21s.
The club, who announced via their website, were delighted to continue to retain the services of the 18-year-old striker, who has been consistent in performance since the 2020/21 season.
Goodman was tipped to end the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping woes, and his performance earned him a place on the first-team bench against Wolverhampton Wanderers in October.
The club’s academy director Gary Issott said Goodman, who has been with the club since the under-13s, has come through the ranks and adapted his style of play to suit the demands of a modern-day goalkeeper.
He said: “He is one of the most exciting young goalkeepers we have had here in my time at the football club. Now that he has committed his long-term future here is great news and shows the commitment of the owners and the club to acquiring and retaining the best young talent.
“He was part of the Under 15 team that won the Floodlit Cup in 2019 and was also part of the Under 18 side that narrowly missed out on the title in 2020/21.
“He has been Paddy McCarthy’s first-choice goalkeeper for the Under-21s this season, keeping three clean sheets in 12 games so far,” he stated.
Speaking about his new deal, Goodman said: “It feels great to sign this contract extension. I need to be here a lot longer and continue to show what I can do.”
Goodman has a good opportunity in his international career.
The goalkeeper was born in Canada to a Nigerian mother and British father, meaning he can represent Canada, Nigeria and England at senior international level.
He added: “Whoever calls me first, I will honor the invitation. However, I will be happy to play for Nigeria if I have the opportunity.”
