Premier League: Teenage defender Jason McCarthy signs new deal at Southampton

Teenage defenders Jason McCarthy and Bevis Mugabi have signed new two-and-a-half-year deals with Southampton.

McCarthy captained Saints’ U21 side throughout the 2014/15 campaign and he has signed on until the summer of 2017, along with Mugabi who recently returned from a long-term knee injury.

I’m getting the right opportunities as has been seen this season and I couldn’t be happier.

McCarthy, who can play centre-back or right-back, made his professional debut when coming on in the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Boxing Day.

Speaking to Southampton’s official YouTube, McCarthy said: “It’s great to put pen to paper. Obviously at the start of the year I knew I was out of contract at the end of the season.

“I was pleased with my progress at the time and I think I’ve done well this season so far. I’ve been with the club since I was seven years old, so it really shows that I’m at the right place.

“I’m getting the right opportunities as has been seen this season and I couldn’t be happier. When I made my debut, it was a really special moment and I’ll never forget it. I just want to kick on now.”

Mugabi, also 19, joined the club from Fulham in 2011 but his progress was derailed by a serious knee injury.

He returned to action late in 2014, scoring three goals in eight appearances, and he knows the next two years are going to be big in his development plans.

Mugabi added: "I’m delighted to get it actually signed and all sorted so I can now just focus on my football and prove my place.

“The next progression for me is first-team football, so hopefully I can carry on working hard and prove myself in training and matches.

“The club gave me my chance when Fulham let me go. It’s the place to be for any young footballer. Southampton have produced loads of players and hopefully I can be one of them to come through.”