Exeter City have announced the signing of goalkeeper Joe Whitworth, who has played twice in the Premier League for Crystal Palace, as per the club’s official X account.
The 21-year-old will join the Grecians on a season-long loan.
A Much-Needed Addition
Gary Caldwell’s side were desperate to sign a new goalkeeper heading into the new season.
Whitworth was the Grecians’ first-choice goalkeeper last season, but his loan had expired and there was no guarantee that it would be renewed.
Additionally, backup goalkeeper Shaun McDonald was released and Harry Lee turned down the offer of a new contract. This left Exeter with 19-year-old Frankie Phillips, who is yet to make an appearance for the first team, as their only contracted goalkeeper heading into preseason.
Despite some teams having played multiple games already, Exeter’s first preseason fixture is due to take place on July 12 against Weston Super Mare and it is likely that Whitworth will start that game in between the sticks.
Last season was the London-born man’s first full season in men’s football, though he had played twice for Crystal Palace in the 2022/23 season as the Eagles suffered a goalkeeping injury crisis, and he excelled.
Whitworth was one of the best goalkeepers in the third tier in all areas. He kept the sixth-most clean sheets, made the fifth-most saves per 90 and made the most accurate long balls of any goalkeeper in League One.
The 21-year-old even managed to pick up an assist against Bolton Wanderers when his long ball towards Josh Magennis was allowed to bounce through to Demetri Mitchell.
Writer’s View
This should be an excellent signing for Exeter City.
One of the worst things a club can do is go into the season without having a clear first-choice goalkeeper and the Grecians were at risk of that until they re-signed Whitworth.
The former England under-18 international will already be familiar with Caldwell’s style of play and he will have a good relationship with the likes of Jack Fitzwater and Pierce Sweeney, meaning that he can seamlessly slot back into Exeter’s defence.
The Grecians have largely signed young players thus far, but they could do with a couple of more experienced marquee signings if they want to push into the playoff places next campaign.
