Fulham has given 17-year-old striker, Jay Stansfield his first professional contract.

Stansfield already has two appearances for the first team appearances since joining the Cottagers in the summer from Exeter City on a scholarship basis.

The teenager made a name for himself in the Under-18s team, where he scored 22 times, which earned him a call-up to the Under-23s side, where he also scored 11 minutes after coming off the bench.

His performance caught the attention of the first team coach, Scott Parker, and he was rewarded with a place in the FA Cup squad in the 2-1 win against Aston Villa, where he was introduced into the game in the 82nd minute.

He retained his place in the squad among the substitutes for the next three Championship fixtures before finally making his league debut against Charlton Athletic.

Excited over the latest development, the young forward pointed out that it has been a great start with the Whites, and he is happy to sign a professional contract with the London club.

Speaking with fulhamfc.com, he couldn’t believe that the contract would come as quickly as it did, thinking he would have to settle in and wait for at least a season before being given a deal.

The young lad also said that he had been given the opportunity to take his chance giving birth to the professional contract.

While not believing he could have scored as many goals as he had,  he put his development down to the hard work in training. He added that he practices his finishing every morning before training, and the team has helped him get to where he is.

While stating that the defence and midfield around him have been a huge help, he said most of his goals wouldn’t have been possible without them.

With the new deal, he is hoping to be a regular starter in the Under-23 and get a few more chances with the first team.

Meanwhile, Michael Hector has been nominated for the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month award.

The defender has enjoyed a stellar start to his Fulham career after moving from Chelsea.

In his three league outings in January, Fulham had clean sheets and got seven points recording victories against Hull City and Middlesbrough prior to a goalless draw at Charlton Athletic.

 Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed