Fulham defenders Luciano D’Auria-Henry, Stefan Parkes and Devan Tanton have signed new contracts with the club.
Right-back D’Auria has put pen to paper on a new deal after becoming a key part of Steve Wigley’s under-21 side as they returned to the top flight at PL2 level. The Ealing-born attacking full back made nineteen league appearances – contributing three assists – before his season ended early through an untimely injury. The 20 year-old told the club’s official website this afternoon:
“I’m so pleased to extend my stay at my boyhood club and I am ready now to kick on! I was eager to stay at Fulham as I’ve been here since the age of 11 and feel at home. I also feel like I have so much still to prove and achieve here so I am really eager and determined to carry on working as hard as possible. My aim is to make a good start in pre-season and potentially get out on loan this season, as men’s football is what I now need to take my game to the next level.
Talented defender Parkes also saw his previous campaign disrupted by injury but he has demonstrated his potential by making 35 under-18 appearances for Ali Melloul’s outfit over the last two defences. Able to play at left back or in central defence, the England youth international is considered to be one of the brightest prospects in Fulham’s academy.
The 19 year-old shared his delighted at committing his future to Fulham:
“I’m really pleased to continue my journey here at Fulham and to continue developing as a player. I know they’ll push me to improve and I’m excited to see where the season ahead takes me. The club continues to show its support and encouragement and, dealing with the setbacks I’ve been dealt with, I really do appreciate that. As much as I want to improve for myself, I would love to do so with the club that’s shown as much patience as they have.”
Colombian international Tanton has impressed after being introduced into the under-21 side after excelling for Fulham’s under 18s. The nineteen year old played twelve under-21 games last season, scoring his first goal in a thrilling 4-3 win over Tottenham. Tanton was buzzing after signing his new deal:
“I’m delighted to extend my time here at Fulham. I’ve worked hard to continue pushing on each season and to be rewarded with a new commitment feels great. Fulham is a big club by reputation, but there is a humility that is maintained at the training ground and it’s quite close-knit so everyone knows each other. I’ve come to feel at home here with how welcoming the staff and players are. I’d like to thank my family for their continued support, allowing me to pursue this dream. Also to my agent and coaches that have given me opportunities to keep developing as a player.”
