LAUREN JAMES signed her first professional contract with Manchester United today, citing the chance to develop under manager Casey Stoney as a key reason for putting pen to paper.

James was one of the first batch of players to join the club when it was formed in July 2018, helping them win promotion from the Women’s Championship to the Women’s Super League.

Having left Arsenal to play for United, the 18-year-old midfielder has gone to bag an impressive 24 goals in 39 goals across all competitions.

On committing to the Red Devils for the foreseeable future, James said: “I’m really happy to have signed a professional contract at United; it’s a really proud moment for me and my family. 

“The club has big ambitions and I’m excited to be a part of that. I’m still young and learning all the time under Casey and the coaching staff and I hope I can continue my development here for years to come.”

James and her teammates have led United to fourth in the WSL in the debut season at this level.

A key member of the team, Stoney heaped praise on James and tipped her to have a bright future as a part of this club.

Stoney said: “Lauren is an exceptional talent; she is one of the most technically gifted players I have worked with.

“It’s great to see her sign her first professional contract at this club and I have no doubt that if she continues to work hard she will have a bright future ahead of her.”

James has scored five goals this season, as many goals as all the other teenagers in the league put together.