Southampton striker Luke Pearce has signed his first professional contract.

The 17-year-old striker joined Saints last season on a scholarship from League Two side Walsall's youth set-up.

“It's an honour at such a big club to sign my first professional contract," said the youngster to the Saints website, “This is what I've been working for, to get to this point, but this is just the start for me.

“I've only been here a season but I feel I've definitely progressed a lot. Going forward I see myself developing even more and becoming an all-rounded player.

“I'm excited to see what this contract will bring and how far I can go beyond that too. Southampton is known for breeding young players, that's obviously an inspiration for me to follow suit.

“Next season I want to make sure I'm performing with the Under-18s firstly, then progress into the B team and hopefully the first team."