First signing Cornell won’t settle for being second best

The first Posh signing of the summer has not arrived at the Weston Homes Stadium to sit on the substitutes’ bench.

Goalkeeper David Cornell put pen to paper on a twoyear contract on Monday and immediately announced he wanted to challenge Christy Pym for a starting place in Championship matches.

Cornell (30), who spent last season at League One Ipswich Town after helping Northampton Town to promotion from League Two in the 2019-20 campaign, said: “It is a great opportunity for me.

“The club had a wonderful promotion campaign last season and I want to come in and challenge for that number one position.

“I was grateful the club wanted to get the deal done quickly and I can now look forward to meeting the lads and start forming relationships, particularly with the goalkeepers and coach Mark Tyler.

“When I heard about the

interest it was a move that excited me straight away.

“To potentially play at Championship level is exciting and it is one that I am really looking forward to. I want to come in, work hard and get settled as quickly as I can.”

Cornell has represented Wales at under 21 level, but has never played Championship football. He started his career with Swansea City and was the second choice ‘keeper for his hometown club in the Premier League.

Posh manager Darren Ferguson said: “David is at a really good age and he has a lot of experience.

“David will come in and really challenge Christy for the number one slot which is what we need.”

Cornell’s contract at Ipswich was cancelled by mutual consent at the end of last season.

Young midfielder Kyle •

Barker (20) has signed a new two-year contract at Posh.

David Cornell during his Northampton Town days.