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Manchester United's young defender Ethan Laird has signed his first professional contract at the club.

The 17-year-old has been in superb form this season, making a real impact for Neil Ryan's Under-18s and Nicky Butt's UEFA Youth League side. Operating at centre-half and full-back, the England Under-18 international displays great strength and speed and has thanked his coaches for aiding his progress.

“It’s like a dream come true,” he told ManUtd.com. “I know it’s a cliché to say that but it really is. From the age of nine, growing up in the Academy and seeing players above you get to the places you want to be, it’s just something you strive for.