Southampon striker Dom Ballard has signed his first professional contract.

The 17-year-old striker is enjoying a breakthrough season at the club, making 41 appearances across the B team and Under-18s sides, contributing 26 goals.

Ballard signed a two-year scholarship deal last July, eight years on from joining Saints in 2013.

On signing his professional deal, he told the club's website: “It's something that I've only ever dreamed of. Now that it's happening it's a dream come true.

“It was an easy decision because of how good the club is and how it feels to be here. I'm really enjoying it and it's a credit to the way we play here, it suits my attributes so well.

“It's been really great to share the pitch with the Under-18s boys and I think that reflects why I'm scoring so much. I just feel so comfortable, it's just such a good environment.

“I've come a long way since the start of the year, had such a big step. But I won't stop now, I've got to push on and hopefully see more first team and make a debut in years to come."