38Neil EtheridgeGoalkeeper

Another Academy graduate to make his First Team bow during the 2011/12 season, Neil Etheridge is also recognised as a bright prospect for the Club.

A regular for the Development Squad since his elevation from the Under-18s, despite initially starting his goalkeeping education at SW6 neighbours Chelsea, Etheridge has made excellent progress in recent seasons.

Having lined-up for England’s Under-16s, the ‘keeper accepted an invitation to represent the Philippines – his mother’s country of birth – at senior level and can now be considered a seasoned international following a number of tournaments on the Asian continent. Having surpassed 100,000 followers on Twitter, Etheridge is somewhat of a national hero.

Having made his Fulham debut in last season’s UEFA Europa League and stepping up as the Club’s number two in the absence of either Mark Schwarzer or David Stockdale, Etheridge will be hopeful that he can follow a similar path to become the Club’s first choice shot-stopper in the not-too-distant future.

On the 20th September 2012 Etheridge joined Bristol Rovers on a one-month loan deal which was later extended until 20th December, although he was recalled by Fulham on 21st November.

In May 2013, the young stopper signed an extension to his contract that will keep him at the Club until summer 2014, with the option of a further year.