Goalkeeper Tom Heaton has committed his future to Manchester United, putting pen to paper on a new deal.
The vastly experienced shot-stopper has penned a new one-year deal at Old Trafford, keeping him at United until the end of the 2024/25 season. His previous deal came to an end on Sunday.
Heaton, who returned to United for a second spell in 2021, had offers to go elsewhere but had made it clear to suitors that he would only leave M16 to become a first-choice goalkeeper.
Part of his decision to stay at Old Trafford was because it gives him the chance to continue planning for life after retirement from his playing career. He is currently away with the England squad at the European Championship as a training goalkeeper, supporting Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson.
On signing a new deal, Heaton said: “I am delighted to continue my stay at my boyhood club. I still feel in great shape and I am ready to offer whatever the squad needs throughout the season ahead.
“In addition to on the pitch, I’m learning so much off it for my next steps, whatever that may be. But, first and foremost, I want to push the squad to build on our successes from last season.”
Despite failing to make a single appearance last season, Heaton was a key figure in the United dressing room. He is renowned for bringing positivity to the squad and assisting with creating a happy environment. He was also a key voice in the leadership group created by manager Erik ten Hag in his first season at Old Trafford.
Heaton’s importance off the pitch has not gone unappreciated within the United camp. After it was announced he was linking up with the England squad ahead of the start of the European Championship last month, United skipper Bruno Fernandes sent a congratulatory message in the veteran’s direction, hailing his leadership credentials.
Fernandes said: “Great leaders are always welcome in any place. Congratulations, big man.”
With his future now sorted, Fernandes, as well as other members of United’s squad, will be delighted that Heaton is sticking around for at least one more season. It is no secret that he will not play regularly, if at all, but his presence within the squad will have a positive impact on his teammates.
Any club, regardless of its size, can benefit from having strong leaders within its dressing room and United are no different. As a boyhood United supporter, Heaton will only inject fresh energy into the camp, as well as offering no shortage of experience and knowledge.
