Manchester United youngster mentored by Darren Fletcher signs professional contract

Manchester United youngster Louis Jackson has signed his first professional contract with the club. The 17-year-old defender has been rewarded with a new deal after an impressive year in which he helped the club win the Youth Cup.

Jackson, who originates from Trafford, is a lifelong United fan and has held a season ticket at the club since he was five.

The Scotland youth international made history last year when he played for the Under 23s at the age of 15 during pre-season, though his crowning moment came in the Youth Cup final win over Nottingham Forest.

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Jackson was drafted into the starting line-up following an injury to teammate Tyler Fredricson and impressed in his performance alongside centre-back partner Rhys Bennett.

Taking to social media, the young centre-back reacted to signing his first professional contract but admitted there is a lot of work to do yet.

"Very proud to sign my first professional contract @manchesterunited," he wrote on Instagram. "Thanks to my family and coaches for their support to make moments like this possible. The hard work continues."

Speaking earlier in the year, Jackson lifted the lid on his time at United and the guidance he has received from fellow Scot Darren Fletcher.

"Darren Fletcher has been a big help for me. He's a really nice guy and he makes a point of always talking to me," he said.

"He's always asking me if there is anything I need or any help he can give me.

"Just before I left to come out to Israel with Scotland he pulled me aside and had a quick chat and wished me all the best. He said he would be watching us.

"He had an amazing career with Manchester United and with Scotland. Any advice he