BREAKING | Will Goodwin signs senior deal at Chester FC

Chester Football Club are pleased to announce that striker Will Goodwin has signed his first senior contract at the Deva Stadium.

The 18-year-old has penned a one-year deal, with the option for a further 12-month extension in favour of the club.

Goodwin, a physical forward with an eye for goal, was the Captain of the Youth side this year and led from the front – particularly in the FA Youth Cup – where he scored six times in the three qualifying rounds of the competition.

Will then made his senior debut in the FA Trophy at Royston Town in January as a second half substitute at the age of just 17. He first joined our Academy at the age of 9 and had a spell at Bolton Wanderers during his younger years.

After the fantastic start to the Boost the Budget fundraiser, and the Managers intentions clear of sticking with the hybrid model, the Blues have tied down an exciting young talent who can reap the rewards of the training schedule.

Joint Boss Anthony Johnson had this to say: “Will just keeps pushing boundaries that we set for him.

“He’s never looked overawed in any senior situation, actually the opposite really, and we hope over the next two or three years he has an explosive start to his career.

“He’s been involved in some matchday squads this season and has been training full time with the first team since the start of the year.

“Will is a big, powerful, direct and quick striker – actually similar to Lloyd Marsh-Hughes in that respect. He is also a composed figure in front of goal.

“You put all that together with the build of the lad at the age of 18 and his potential is scary.”

Academy Head Coach Calum McIntyre said: “I am delighted for Will and his family that he has achieved his goal of signing a senior contract at Chester.

“Will’s work ethic has been phenomenal and his dedication to achieving his aim has been absolutely first class. Working with him has been a privilege and a really enjoyable experience and I am ecstatic that he can now kick on in the next chapter of his career.

“Once again, the Academy has demonstrated its value to the football club in continuing to produce players for Chester FC.

“I want to congratulate and thank those involved in recruiting Will to the football club at such a young age and to all of the age group coaches that worked with him during his time with the Academy. Your work is incredible and is much appreciated.

“I am so excited for Will and believe this is the start of his adventure which is much deserved for an outstanding young man.”

Congratulations, Will!