Matt Sutton has been rewarded for a breakout season in goal for Western United, putting pen to paper on a two-year contract extension at the Club.
The 24-year-old has excelled in his first opportunity for regular first-team football, starting all 14 of United’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men matches so far this season.
His saves have been integral in United’s recent run of form including a sublime stop against Macarthur FC and a man-of-the-match, nine-save performance against Sydney FC.
Cementing himself at Ironbark Fields, Sutton said he is ready to repay the faith and go to a new level in the next two seasons.
“I’m really excited to be re-committed to the Club. To be able to put a few good games together this season along with the team feels really good,” he said.
“To see the fans here in Tarneit leaving with a smile on their face – that’s the biggest thing and that’s what football’s about. I’m really stoked, and hopefully let the good times keep rolling.
“We’re building something really special. The future looks really bright and obviously that’s why I’m stoked to be staying here for the next two years.”
Western United General Manager of Football Mal Impiombato said Sutton’s was one of the Club’s great success stories of this season.
“Since joining us at the beginning of last season, Matt has bought into our Club culture and values and worked tirelessly to earn his opportunities,” he said.
“It has been a great pleasure to watch him succeed this season knowing the commitment he has made to his profession and to the Club.
“His performances on the pitch have been of equal importance to his impact off the pitch amongst the group, and we have no doubt that influence will continue to grow positively in the coming years.”
Sutton’s extension comes after 18-year-old Alex Nassiep signed his first-ever professional contract at the Club two weeks ago.
Those two and Michael Vonja complete United’s goalkeeping core for the remainder of this season and into the future as the Club continues to give opportunities for young talents to shine.
