Jordan Pickford has signed a new contract with Sunderland that will keep him at the club until 2020.
The 21-year-old has impressed since returning to his parent club from a loan spell with Preston North End, making his Premier League debut against Tottenham Hotspur after making his senior bow at Arsenal in the FA Cup.
With so many rumours surrounding him about a potential move elsewhere for more first team chances, that has all been put to bed now with the signing of a new deal as he firmly establishes himself at the club.
Battle between the sticks
With the Black Cats struggling once more this season, they need as much fight as they can get and will be thrilled that Pickford has come in and offered competition in the goalkeeping position in order to add more of a competitive edge in this area of the side.
Vito Mannone's recent promotion to the number one spot - at the expense of the now departed Costel Pantilimon - has been followed by serious competition from Pickford and a real fight for the position.
This is nothing but healthy for the team and ensures full focus and concentration from both, as they know they'll lose their spot if anything less is on show - which could be especially important for a side who produce far too many individual errors.
Allardyce thrilled
Speaking to Sunderland's official website, manager Sam Allardyce expressed his delight with Pickford's extended stay at Sunderland after the wonderfully quick impression he has made since returning to Wearside.
The boss described the 'keeper as "an exceptional talent," something he believes has "already [been] demonstrated" by how "comfortable" he is "playing at the highest level."
"There is still a lot more potential for development," he continued, something he finds "really exciting" indeed.
Allardyce added that it is "always great" when "a local lad" comes up through the Academy - especially for the fans - before saying he is "certain" that Pickford has "a very bright future" with Sunderland.
