Taylor, a popular figure among the City squad, made a rare appearance for the Elite Development Squad against West Brom last week and ended up being voted man-of-the-match following a series of impressive stops plus a penalty save.
With two of the best custodians in Europe currently battling for the No.1 shirt for City, Taylor is philosophical about his role within the squad - though it had looked likely he would be playing for elsewhere after being released at the end of last season.
“It’s funny how things work out,” he said.
After what happened at the back end of last season, I don’t think the club wanted to find itself in a situation where they were struggling for an experienced goalkeeper
...Stuart Taylor
“I was actually in the process of moving my stuff out of my Manchester home when I was asked to come and see the manager at Carrington. He asked if I’d like to stay and I when I was offered a new deal, I didn’t hesitate,” he said.
“West Ham had showed interest during the summer and I thought I might be heading back to London at one stage, which from a family point-of-view wouldn’t have been a bad thing. But it’s a short career and I enjoyed being with City last year so it made sense to stay here.”
Taylor penned a new two-year deal and within days was on his way to tour the US with the Blues.
He’s only made one senior start for the Blues to date - but things can change rapidly and he knows he could be called upon at any moment – hence the EDS appearance last week.
“I felt I needed to play a competitive game and the manager agreed,” he said. “I enjoyed the match at West Brom and being the senior pro, I was busy keeping what was a young defence on their toes. I played OK and it doesn’t do any harm when people say nice things about you.
“I get along really well with Shay and Joe and there’s a good spirit within the squad. We’ve made a good start to the campaign and I hope I’ll be able to play a part at some part. In the meantime I’ll be training hard and if I’m needed, I’ll be ready.”
