Rising star Will Smallbone has signed a fresh four-year deal with Southampton.
The Ireland youth international, 20, cracked the Saints first-team this season and has been rewarded with a new deal despite having a year to run.
English-born Smallbone - whose mother is from Kilkenny - has been on Southampton’s books since he was eight.
The midfielder - capped by Ireland up to Under-19 level - said: “I’ve been at the club a long-time now, so to commit my long-term future for another four years is very special to me.
“To see the manager sign a new contract was big for me too. He’s given me a chance this season to, firstly, be in and around training with the squad.
“And then actually give me my chance in thegames to play and show what I can do. So that’s a big factor in me committing as well.”
Smallbone scored on his senior debut in an FA Cup clash with Huddersfield and then started Premier League games against Aston Villa and West Ham.
Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said: “Will is a young man who is part of the future of this football club.
“He has made some big steps this season and he is someone who has a lot of potential to continue to grow as a player.”
