Exclusive: Defender snubbed Newcastle to sign Millwall deal

YOUNG defender Jake Goodman turned down a move to the Premier League before signing professional terms with Millwall.

Goodman officially put pen-to-paper on his first Lions contract yesterday, a move first revealed by NewsAtDen last month, despite strong interest from Newcastle United.

It is understood the 18-year-old snubbed an offer from the Magpies to stay with the club he supported as a boy.

And Goodman has already set his sights on competing with the likes of Paul Robinson and Darren Ward for a place in the first team.

"I've got a lot to learn yet but I'm determined to work hard and hopefully if I keep improving I can force my way into the first team squad," he told the club's official site.

"Robbo and Wardy have been great. They are excellent role models and I can learn a lot from them."