Words John Edwards | Pictures Jonathan Moore

It's the news all Alty fans have been waiting and hoping for - Ethan Ross has signed a new contract and is staying at The J.Davidson Stadium.

Ask any Robins supporter to name the best keeper in the Enterprise National League, and it would be the man who has consistently excelled between the posts since arriving from Stockport County, initially on loan but then permanently soon after.

Such has been his importance to Alty's defensive stability that it came as a hammer blow to the Robins' play-off aspirations when an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Braintree Town in February brought his 2024-25 campaign to a premature end.

It was always going to be a long, arduous path back to full fitness, but, as he continues to advance along it, there is an extra spring in his step after he agreed new terms to extend his Alty career.

"I'm delighted to remain part of this fantastic football club," he said. "I'm looking forward to pushing myself every day on and off the field and returning with a fresh and even more resilient mindset.

"I'm really thankful for the faith shown in me by the gaffer and I will be doing everything in my power to repay that faith. I'm now looking forward to getting back in around the lads next week and helping to bring through the next generation of goalkeepers at the club." 

This was the last of the new contract negotiations Phil Parkinson has been carefully navigating his way through in recent weeks, and he was delighted it reached a successful conclusion with a player who has become the firmest of fans' favourites.

"I'm really pleased to have got Ethan over the line," said the Alty boss. "It has taken a lot of negotiating to find that sweet spot for both club and player.

"When you are signing a player who is currently injured, there is always an element of risk for the club. But I believe the rewards far outweigh the risk in this instance, and the board have backed my judgement in believing we have the best keeper in the division on our hands.

"Ethan has got the best years of his career to come, and I believe he is in his absolute prime. He is a consummate professional who does everything by the book, and if anyone is going to come back bigger and better, it's going to be Ethan.

"So, for the short-term pain, I believe the long-term gain is more than worth the risk. Louie Fallon will play a lot of pre-season for us, unless I find a suitable candidate in the next couple of weeks, and where Ethan’s not playing he has a dual role like Matty Kosylo on the coaching front. He’ll be driving standards off the pitch before he gets back on it.

"I'm absolutely delighted the club have backed my judgement to re-sign Ethan, and when he is back fit again, I believe he will help us drive forward and push on towards the play-offs once again."

Fantastic news that you're staying, Ethan, and we're all looking forward to seeing you in action again as soon as possible.

To purchase your 2025/26 Altrincham FC Season Ticket and join us for the next chapter at The J.Davidson Stadium simply click here. Our Early Bird discount ends on Monday, June 30th.