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Sports Reporter
YOUNG Warriors goalkeeper Donovan Bernard is looking to grow his young career at How Mine after the 20-year old Aces Youth Soccer Academy product extended his loan deal by another year.

Bernard’s contract had expired on December 31 after spending two seasons with the Bulawayo side.

However, the young shot-stopper, who quickly established himself as first choice ahead of more experienced personnel at the club, believes he has found the perfect environment to work and develop to his full potential.

Bernard said he is not keen to move any time soon.

“I have been progressing well and I hope to keep working hard and grow in my career,” said Bernard.

“I have no intention of moving to any other club here in Zimbabwe at the moment because they are almost all the same.

“Some clubs had wanted me but I decided to stay put because the people at How Mine have shown faith in me. I have played most of the games for the team and it’s good for me.

“I appreciate the support that I get from my teammates and the technical. There is a good, friendly atmosphere.

“We joke when we are not on serious business and work hard when it is time to work. So I think I have settled very well and I am now a very confident person.”

Bernard is son to former Black Aces goal minder, Mirirayi Bernard.

His handlers at Aces Youth Soccer Academy yesterday confirmed he is staying put at Chikurupati for this season.

Bernard is currently with the national team that is set to play at the Africa Nations Championship and is also part of the Under-23 national team setup.

AYSA director Nigel Munyati yesterday said they are excited by his progress and have agreed to lease him for one more season at How Mine.

“I think this boy has had a strong development trajectory but the only challenge with goalkeepers is that their demand from foreign shores is not as high as the infield players.

“But we are happy with what he is doing and we can only wish him well,” said Munyati.

The former ZIFA board member marketing also confirmed Wisdom Mutasa, another AYSA player, has signed one year loan deal at ZPC Kariba while negotiations are still taking place for Young Warriors forward Walter Musona to return to FC Platinum.