Dean Henderson was in attendance as the Crystal Palace U18 side defeated Manchester United to win the U18 Premier League Cup on Wednesday night.
The young Eagles made history as they won the competition for the first time, beating the Red Devils 6-5 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes.
Several players shone on the night at Selhurst Park – but Dean Henderson was particularly impressed by Lucca Benetton.
Dean Henderson hails Lucca Benetton
It speaks volumes on its own that the 15-year-old is already a regular for the U18 side, let alone the fact he is one of the best performers in this age group.
Benetton – who Juventus want to sign – made a number of fine saves against Manchester United, who possess some of the best young attackers in England in JJ Gabriel and Chido Obi.
When asked to reflect on the U18 Premier League Cup win and Benetton’s decisive stop in the shootout before starting training at Copers Cope on Thursday morning, Henderson said: “That’s unbelievable (the save).
“I think he’s got a right chance if he sticks with it. I was very impressed. It’s the first time I’ve watched him live. I think he’s got all the attributes. I’m buzzing for him, he’s just got to keep working hard.”
There is currently some fierce competition for the No.1 spot at Crystal Palace, with an experienced Argentina international breathing down Henderson’s neck in Walter Benitez.
Joe Whitworth – currently on loan at Exeter – is another talented goalkeeper Crystal Palace have at their disposal, one who has already appeared twice for the Eagles in the Premier League.
Therefore, Benetton may have to wait some time until he gets a chance to debut for the Eagles, but even if his future lies away from Selhurst Park, he looks set to have a bright career in football based on his consistently excellent displays for the U18 side, who Timothy Fosu-Mensah congratulated.
