Leadership

England Based Star, Goodman, Signs Contract Extension

- BY PATRICK OCHOGA, Benin City

Owen Olamidayo Goodman, an 18-year-old England-based goalkeepin­g sensation, who is eligible to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, has signed a contract extension with his U-21 Crystal Palace Club.

The club, which announced this via its website, expressed happiness that they will continue to retain the services of the Nigerian-born player, who has been consistent in performanc­e since the 2020/2021 season.

Goodman, who has been touted to end the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s goalkeepin­g nightmare, has seen his performanc­es earn him a place on the first-team bench against Wolverhamp­ton Wanderers in October 2022.

According to the club’s academy director, Gary Issott, Goodman, who has been at the club since Under13s, has worked his way up through the ranks and has adapted his playing style to fit the requiremen­ts of a modern-day goalkeeper.

“He is one of the most exciting young goalkeeper­s we have had here in my time at the football club.

“The fact that he is now committed to his long-term future here is great news and it shows how committed the owners and the club are to getting and retaining the best young talent,”Issott stated.

Speaking on his new deal, Goodman said: “It feels great to sign this contract extension. I get to be here for a lot longer and I get to continue to show what I can do.”

The goalkeeper was born in Canada to a Nigerian mother and British father.

This means he can represent Canada, Nigeria and England for his internatio­nal career.

A young goalkeeper with a clear head and directions opened up on how he’ll arrive at a decision.

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