MAX Conway has signed a new long-term deal with Bolton Wanderers.
The homegrown defender has ended weeks of speculation by penning a new contract tying him to the club until summer 2029.
Conway’s previous deal ran until the end of the current campaign, and his excellent early-season form had supporters worrying he could be poached.
But the left-back allayed fears to continue his long association with the Whites which stretches back to when he first signed as a seven year old at the academy.
“There were just a few things we had to get done before putting pen to paper but now it's finally done I'm buzzing,” the 22-year-old said on announcing his new contract.
“The club's been a massive part of my life, growing up around the place and seeing everything that's happened in the last 15 or 16 years, so I'm really, really delighted to be here for the next few seasons.
“I want to be at this football club. It's all I've ever known, so to get the extra three years after this season is great. When I signed for the club it was the year when they were in the Europa League and I think they beat Atletico Madrid, so I've seen quite a lot. We've seen it happen before and that's where I want us and Bolton to go.
“This was always going to be a big season for me in my Bolton career. It was a fresh start with there being a change in manager, so all I wanted to do was leave a good impression.
“I'm delighted how it's gone so far. I just want to keep developing, keep working on my weaknesses, but also keep trying to improve my strengths at the same time and hopefully it can just become better and better. It's been a great journey and long may it continue.”
Conway had been on the edges of the first team under previous manager Ian Evatt and was sent out to League Two Crewe Alexandra last season to gain more experience.
His successful stint in Cheshire led to him being voted as the club’s player of the year, which prompted Steven Schumacher to invite him on the pre-season training camp in Spain.
The Bolton boss has been pleased with Conway’s progression and having named him as a regular starter in the back four over the first 13 games, he is keen to see him improve even further after committing his future to the Toughsheet Stadium.
“This is well deserved and fantastic news for Max and the club,” Schumacher said. “He’s been excellent for us so far this season and is a player with a bright future.
“We’re delighted that’s going to be with Bolton Wanderers for the next stage of his career when I believe we will see him continue to grow and develop into a fantastic talent for the club.
“There is still work for him to do but he has shown through his progress right through the Academy here that not only is there a pathway open to young players but that he is prepared to listen and learn and make the most of his opportunities.
“He has gained some invaluable experience along the way and now as an established part of our first-team squad I look forward to working with him for the rest of this season and beyond as he looks to try and help us achieve our targets.”
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