Top Azkals goalie still with Fulham

HOPING to continue honing his skills alongside world-class football talents, Filipino international Neil Etheridge has agreed to a one-year extension to stay on at English Premier League side Fulham.

The new deal also gives the 23-year-old Etheridge the option to extend for one more season in the London-based club after his contract ends in 2014.

Etheridge, who has 42 appearances as goalkeeper of the Philippine team, has been with Fulham since he was 15, rising from the ranks in the club’s academy, before eventually getting his first start in a Europa League match when top keeper Mark Schwarzer got injured.

“It’s great news to be staying at Fulham, a nice family club with good character,” Etheridge told the Inquirer. “I have enjoyed my time here, so I’m very happy to have extended my contract. Next year will be great for me to go and play, whether that be at Fulham or out on loan.”

Etheridge said he’s determined to improve not just for his club, but also when he is given the chance to represent the country again.

“I feel that I keep progressing and getting better, reaching new goals every year that passes by. I hope the in the coming season I can do exactly the same,” said Etheridge, who was left out of the AFC Challenge Cup lineup last month despite his availability.