Tom Heaton has signed a new one-year contract that will see the veteran goalkeeper continue at Manchester United for a further season.
Tom Heaton only has three professional appearances to his name at Manchester United, but despite this, he has become one of the most loved and respected players at the club.
The 39-year-old has signed a new one-year contract with the club to continue as their third-choice goalkeeper, currently sitting behind André Onana and Altay Bayındır in the pecking order.
Heaton will be entering into his 20th season as a professional player, having debuted at Swindon Town, while on loan from United, in 2005.
He returned to United in 2021 and is well known to play a leadership role, often organising events and keeping the squad in order alongside Bruno Fernandes.
Heaton opens up on Amorim’s Premier League plans
With his new season-long contract announced on Friday morning, Heaton explained that Amorim’s current squad are “really excited” about the forthcoming season, explaining that the head coach is preparing his side to return to competing for major honours.
“I am extremely proud to continue to represent Manchester United. As a group, we are all really excited for the season ahead,” Heaton told club media.
“I am ready to support the team in every capacity as we prepare to get back to challenging for the biggest honours.”
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, also commented on Heaton’s extension, saying, “Tom’s leadership and experience are really important for the group, so we’re pleased that he will be part of the squad again next season.
“Tom’s mentality and excellent preparation to ensure that he is always ready to perform when called upon makes him the perfect complement to our goalkeeping group.”
United must use this season as a stepping stone
The board at United currently aim to win the Premier League title by the end of the 2027/28 campaign, mapping out a three-year plan to retain domestic league glory.
After failing to qualify for European competition next season, United are set to play just one fixture a week for the majority of next season, meaning Amorim will have a lot of time on the training ground with his squad.
There are no major domestic expectations for next season beyond potentially lifting one of the two domestic cups and demonstrating more consistency in the league, with a greater emphasis on providing evidence that a distinct style of play is being established at United.
Amorim must use the forthcoming season to make a lasting impact on this United squad and establish a solid foundation for the years to come. The signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and others should help with that.
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