Sunderland hand professional contracts to Academy of Light duo after breakthrough seasons
Two Sunderland youngsters have agreed their first professional contracts.
Sunderland have handed a first professional contract to Archie Lightfoot after the Academy of Light product made considerable progress over the last year.
The young left-back has become a regular feature at Under-18s level in recent seasons and was a key part of the side that reached the quarter-finals of last season’s FA Youth Cup before an away defeat at Manchester United ended any thoughts of lifting silverware. Despite that disappointment, Lightfoot will look back upon the season with great fondness after he broke into the Black Cats Under-21s set-up on a regular basis by making 31 appearances across all competitions. He also caught the eye when he provided assists for Jaydon Jones and Harrison Jones to score in respective wins against Ipswich Town and Leeds United during the second half of the season.
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He will now hope to continue shining within Sunderland’s second string when the new season gets underway next month and the youngster has already revealed he is determined to be fully prepared for the campaign after signing his first professional contract.
He told the club website: “I’ve been here since the age of seven so this is what I’ve been waiting for my whole life. Sunderland has such a big place in my heart being here for so long. I’m ready to get back after a nice break but I’m excited to get back and ready for this season.” Academy Manager John Hewitson commented: “Archie has worked extremely hard for this opportunity and fully deserves the chance to continue his journey and further his development with this football club.”
The deal comes just days after fellow prospect Charlie Dinsdale also put pen-to-paper on his first professional contract after the attacking midfielder enjoyed a productive season by scoring one goal and providing four assists in his first 13 appearances at Under-21s level. After signing the deal, Dinsdale said: “This is something I’ve worked towards ever since I can remember so it’s a really proud moment. I’m just getting started now so I’ve just got to keep working every day and make sure I don’t take anything for granted.”
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