Preston North End goalkeeper Declan Rudd has discussed the reasons behind signing a new contract at Deepdale – and his personal experience with coronavirus.
Preston North End Goalkeeper Discusses Close Shave With Coronavirus and New Contract
Three Year Deal For Rudd
The former Norwich City man has committed his immediate future to the Yorkshire-based outfit.
Rudd has made more than 150 appearances for the Lilywhites since making the move north from the Canaries.
The coronavirus pandemic has caused widespread disruption to the football schedule, but it has allowed for a greater focus on family life.
Rudd experienced a close-run with the illness as his mother-in-law contracted COVID-19, leading to an extended stay in hospital.
He recently moved into a new home with his partner and two young children.
But speculation as to whether he would remain at Deepdale was rife as the goalkeeper opted to remain in Norwich.
He has, however, decided he wishes to remain with Preston and has recently penned a new deal.
Speaking to LancsLive, he said: “Family was the main thing, we were taking time in getting it done.
“We have had a lot of time together as a family and had a chance to talk.
“It has been something we have spoken about at length and I am really happy at Preston.
“I didn’t want to leave somewhere because of the family living down south and us all be unhappy so this is sort of the way where we can all be happy and enjoy it.”
A Close Shave With Coronavirus
Staying in Norwich has had the added benefits of staying nearer his wider family.
It has also allowed his partner Sophie to continue supporting her mother as she recovers from coronavirus.
“Sophie’s parents have been ill and her mum has been in hospital with the virus so it has been good to be down here to help them with shopping and stuff like that,” said the former Norwich City ‘keeper.
“She is feeling much better and has hopefully got through it. She was struggling for four or five weeks but is a lot better now.
“If we were stuck five hours away we wouldn’t have been able to help them. It makes you realise what is important and you can enjoy being together and enjoy being healthy.”
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