EXCITING youngster Tyler Dibling has signed his first professional contract with Saints to keep him at the club until 2025.

Dibling exploded onto the scene last spring when he scored a hat-trick of near identical goals for Saints’ B team against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

And shortly after, Dibling was handed a place on the first-team bench by then-manager Ralph Hasenhuttl for Saints’ trip to Brentford.

But in the summer, Dibling departed the Saints academy for Chelsea before making a u-turn on the decision and returning to the club by August.

A regular of both the Saints Under-18s and the B team this season, Dibling has been rewarded with his first professional contract after turning 17 last week.

“It feels good," Dibling said after signing his contract. "I’ve been here since the age of eight and it’s always good when a player comes through all the ranks and finally signs a pro deal that every kid wants when they’re younger.

“Every day you get closer (to the first team) by working hard and trying, and I’ve signed for two-and-a-bit years here so hopefully I can push to the first team and push to be a starter.”

Meanwhile, academy director Matt Hale added: “It's great to get Tyler signed on a long-term professional contract - having been part of our academy since he was eight years old, he’s grown through our programme both as a character and as a skilful player. 

“He has already achieved so much in his young career having represented England at youth level, playing up regularly in our B team and of course being part of the first team squad last season."

“His performances of late have been particularly impressive. He joins an extremely talented crop of first contract professionals who are enjoying a very successful season in the professional development phase age groups.”