Academy starlet signs contract as dream comes true
UNITED defender Ethan Laird has signed his first professional deal at the club.
The England Under-18 international admitted it is ‘a dream come true’ to have put pen to paper on his first contract with United after an impressive start to the new campaign.
“It’s like a dream come true,” he said. “I know it’s a cliche to say that, but it really is. From the age of nine, growing up in the academy and seeing players above you get to the places you want to be, it’s just something you strive for. I’m really, really happy.
“A lot of sacrifices had to be made and I feel like it’s paying off now. I mean it’s only step one and there are a lot more steps to come, including obviously getting to the final stage, which is the first team.
“I feel like they [the staff] have given me the pro contract and it’s them trusting me and believing in me as a player, that I can go far. So I’m really pleased to have trust from Nicky Butt and, obviously, my manager Neil Ryan.”
Laird has impressed at centrehalf and full-back for Neil Ryan’s side this season and also performed well in the UEFA Youth League.
Having signed his new deal, Laird has now headed off with the England Under-18s alongside James Garner and Mason Greenwood and the 17-year-old is enjoying the opportunity to learn more about his teammates while on international duty.
“It was a great experience [last break],” he added. “We went to France and played a few teams. It was good experience with Jimmy and Mason as well. That helps because it’s familiar faces to have a bit of chemistry with your own teammates. You’re playing in the youth team with them but learning new stuff about them. “I scored my first international goal - a header. I was very pleased about that one. I was also captain for the second game. It was great experience again for my country.”
I’m really, really happy. A lot of sacrifices had to be made and I feel like it’s paying off now Ethan Laird