Manchester United’s third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton has penned a one-year contract extension with the club.
The 40-year-old, who boasts three England caps, has made only three first-team appearances since rejoining Old Trafford for his second spell in 2021.
Heaton initially progressed through United’s youth ranks before embarking on a career that included stints at clubs such as Burnley and Aston Villa.
Heaton said: “It is a huge honour to continue to represent Manchester United. You can feel the determination and ambition of everyone throughout the club to keep pushing for success. I am really excited to play my role in driving us forward and helping the group to compete for the biggest honours.”
Heaton has primarily served as back-up to Senne Lammens, who became first choice last summer, and Altay Bayindir.
The club’s goalkeeping department faces further potential changes, with Bayindir reportedly linked with a move away and the future of Andre Onana, who has been on loan at Trabzonspor this season, remaining uncertain.
Heaton’s senior debut came in 2005 while on loan at Swindon from United, with the goalkeeper leaving the club in 2010 after a further five temporary moves.
He enjoyed his most successful period at Burnley, making 200 appearances for the Clarets during a stint that saw the club earn promotion to the Premier League twice with Heaton in goal – first in 2014, before bouncing back from relegation with a return to the top-flight in 2016.
His time at Aston Villa was derailed by a season-ending injury in January 2020, one which carried into the next campaign, opening the door for Emi Martinez to establish himself as Villa’s first-choice keeper. He returned to Old Trafford after a season out of favour at the Villans.
Director of football Jason Wilcox underscored Heaton’s value, adding: “We are delighted that Tom is continuing for another year. Everyone is well aware of the importance of his leadership and professionalism within the group.”
