Young Norwich City goalkeeper Caleb Ansen has signed his first professional contract with the club and is taking inspiration from Angus Gunn. 

The 17-year-old has been rewarded for his fine form for the Canaries' U18, being ever-present so far this season.  

Ansen is a highly-rated and physically imposing goalkeeper with a knack for saving penalties. 

After penning his new deal, Ansen praised City's senior goalkeepers for the inspiration they provide those in the academy. 

"I'm a very commanding goalkeeper, I like to make big saves, I'm very loud on the pitch. And obviously, there are some parts of my game that I can work on, which is very important too.

"I look up to Angus Gunn, as he came through the academy. He's obviously an idol of mine. Tim Krul is someone I look up to as well, he's had an iconic career and someone's who has been a big member of the team.

"For the rest of the season, I'd love to break into the Under-21s side. Eventually, though, I'd love to play for the first-team and make a career in football here."

Ansen arrived at Norwich from Harlow Town as a youngster and has come through the ranks and, as with every young player, the awarding of his first professional deal is a memorable day. 

"I'm very proud," he told City's official channels. "It's obviously a proud moment for me, I've been at the club since I was 13 or 14 years old. To get a professional contract, it's a proud moment for me and my family.

"I came from grassroots football, so Norwich are the first academy I've been a part of. It's a great honour to play for the club, and the club have treated me beautifully.

"I used to play for my local team, Harlow Town, and I was scouted by Norwich when I was 13 or 14. And I've been at the club since then, got my scholarship when I was 15, and now I've signed my professional deal."

 

Ansen is one of several young shot-stoppers that are benefitting from the experience and coaching of former Canaries keeper Declan Rudd, who was appointed as lead academy goalkeeping coach back in September. 

Steve Weaver, head of football development, is excited for the teenager to test himself in under-21 matches in the future. 

"We are delighted that Caleb has signed his first professional contact and we look forward to him pushing the under-21 goalkeepers," Weaver said. "He has improved under the guidance of Greg Crane and Declan Rudd, with some excellent performances this season."