Brentford goalkeeper, Ellery Balcombe has signed a new four-year deal. Thomas Frank has discussed the keeper since.
Balcombe has been with the Bees for over 15 years and made his first team debut this season.
The goalkeeper has made seven loan spells away from the club with Bristol Rovers being the most recent.
This season he has remained at the GTECH Community Stadium, looking to take his first team chances in cup competitions.
In a game against Newport County, he was the difference in a penalty shootout to send his side through to the next round.
What has Thomas Frank said about Ellery Balcombe?
It was clear that the Brentford boss was delighted to tie the keeper down to a long-term deal.
Asked about it, Frank said: “I’m happy that Ellery has extended his contract. He is a Brentford person, through and through.”
The Dane rates the shot-stopper, gifting him his Bees debut this season.
On that, he said: “I’m so pleased that he got his deserved debut against Newport. He had an unbelievable impact in the penalty shootout.”
At 23-years old it feels like Balcombe has been around forever. A goalkeeper’s career path can be different to an outfield player’s.
Discussing that, Frank said: “No player’s pathway is the same. Ellery has been on a natural path as a goalkeeper.
“Going on loans, developing and returning to us. You can see how hard he has worked and how much he has put in.”
There were some concerns over his contract situation, but it appears it was of high priority to keep the boyhood Bees fan.
Asked about the keeper, Frank said: “He has been more consistent, and he has big potential. We’re pleased that he sees his future here because we definitely feel the same way.”
It is great to see young players stay on at the club and get their chance, and someday he may be number one.