Jenson Jones signs first professional Sunderland contract

The defender has put pen to paper on a deal that initially runs until 2026, with the club having the option to extend the contract by a further 12 months.

Versatile Jones can play at full-back or in central midfield and has played 20 times for Sunderland's Under-21s and 18s sides, scoring once.

He was just six when he was first scouted by the Black Cats and impressed club coaches with the way he battled back from a knee injury during his scholarship.

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Robin Nicholls, academy manager, said: “We are delighted that Jenson has signed his first professional contract with the club.

"He is a player who has developed his game significantly in the last few seasons and has impressed staff across the club with his versatility.

"Able to play on both sides of the pitch, as well as centrally in midfield, we believe that the U21 programme, along with our unique approach to individual development, will allow Jenson to fulfil the potential that we see within him. We look forward to the next few seasons with Jenson.”