Manchester United youngster signs first professional contract

Left-back Sam Murray has announced that he has signed his first professional contract at Manchester United.

The 18-year-old, who joined United at Under-15s level from Huddersfield Town, has risen through the ranks at Old Trafford and was part of the starting line-up that beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 in last year's FA Youth Cup final. He has made a total of 46 appearances at Under-18s level so far, scoring six goals and grabbing three assists.

Murray, despite his tender age, has also represented the Under-21s on several occasions as well, making 17 appearances in that particular age bracket. He has played 12 times for the Under-21s in the Premier League 2 this season.

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On putting pen to paper on his first professional deal, Murray, taking to his Instagram page, said: "Happy to sign my first professional contract with Manchester United. A proud moment for me and my family. The hard work continues!"

Murray, who has been congratulated on Instagram by the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Zidane Iqbal, is an attack-minded left-back that loves nothing more than driving forward and offering extra attacking support. He has chipped in with a goal and three assists this season, all of which have come in the Under-18s Premier League.

As well as being a regular fixture for the Under-18s this season and in the Premier League 2 for the Under-21s, he also featured for United's first-team in their mid-season friendlies against Cadiz and Real Betis in the World Cup break. Erik ten Hag included him in the squad that travelled to Spain back in December and he benefitted from storing some valuable experience under his belt.

Murray also tested