Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson has said he could not be happier after penning a new deal with the Black Cats.
The announcement was made yesterday evening, with Sunderland confirming that the shot-stopper had penned a four year extension that will see him remain at the club until 2026.
Patterson was a key part of Sunderland's promotion last campaign, featuring 23 times in League One and the play-offs after breaking into the team at the start of the calendar year.
In those matches, the 22-year-old kept an impressive 10 clean sheets.
Speaking to Sunderland club media, Patterson reacted to his deal by stating: “I’ve had a brilliant year and couldn’t be happier to have signed a new contract."
"I joined the Club when I was 10, so to play my part in promotion and winning at Wembley Stadium was a dream come true.
"I’m now focussed on the new season and improving my overall game to ensure I prove myself in the Championship and continue to help the team.”
Also speaking as part of the announcement was Sunderland boss Alex Neil, who handed Patterson the number one role on a permanent basis at the Stadium of Light upon his arrival in February.
The Black Cats boss said the contract was a reward for what he had achieved over the last few months at the club.
“There is nothing better than seeing someone that has come through the academy, and is Sunderland through and through, doing the business in the first team." Neil explained to Sunderland club media.
"It is great to reward him for what he has achieved, but he knows he can’t rest on his laurels because the easy part is done and the hard work now starts for him this season.”
Sunderland kick off their 2022/23 Championship campaign with a home fixture against Mark Robins' Coventry City on July 31st.
The Verdict
This is a great bit of business by Sunderland.
Patterson is a key asset for the club moving forward and they are right to tie him down for the long term.
Not only that, but the 22-year-old is more than deserving of a new deal with the club that reflects his worth to the team after coming in earlier this year and making that number one spot his own.
At 22-years-old, the potential for Patterson is endless, and it will be exciting to see how he adapts to football in the Championship next campaign.