Dean Henderson has given a glowing verdict of Crystal Palace U18 goalkeeper Lucca Benetton after watching him win the Premier League U18 Cup on Wednesday. The English shot-stopper is thriving at youth level.
Benetton produced a stunning save to deny Goodwill Kukonki in a 6-5 penalty shootout win after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes. The 15-year-old is already playing at U18 level and is shining.
It wasn’t just his shootout heroics that earned praise, as he kept United’s attacking duo, JJ Gabriel and Chido Obi, at bay during regulation time. He has already trained with the senior team which speaks volumes of his enormous potential.
Dean Henderson Hails Benetton
Henderson was in attendance at Selhurst Park and watched Benetton help the young Eagles secure victory and a Premier League U18 Cup triumph. He rewatched the shot-stopper’s display ahead of training at Copers Cope on Thursday:
“That’s unbelievable (the save).”
Henderson tipped Benetton to fulfil his potential:
“I think he’s got a right chance if he sticks with it. I was very impressed. It’s the first time I’ve watched him live. I think he’s got all the attributes. I’m buzzing for him, he’s just got to keep working hard.”
Benetton made his 12th appearance of the season in the win over United, which saw Javier Alonso’s youngsters get revenge. They suffered a 2-1 loss to Darren Fletcher’s side at Old Trafford in the FA Youth Cup semi-finals last week.
Henderson himself might one day be looking over his shoulder should Benetton continue to thrive at youth level. But for now, the English goalkeeper is the undisputed number one and will be eager to captain the senior side to Conference League glory.
All Eyes on Benetton
Palace might have a fight on their hands to keep Benetton amid interest from Juventus. Reports claim that the Old Lady and Atalanta are both keeping tabs on him and there are some who expect him to end up in Italy.
Benetton, though, has been given a taste of the first-team environment, having trained with Henderson and Remi Matthews. He recalled this experience back in February 2025:
“Being with the first team was a great experience. It’s very different to the academy – the preparation, the detail, how thorough everything is. You learn a lot just by being around them and talking to the senior players.”
Benetton is just one of several Palace youngsters shining under Alonso. Benji Casey, 18, who scored the equaliser against United, is another, while the likes of Dean Benamer, 17, and Chuks Okoli, 18, are also earning rave reviews.
