SUNDERLAND youngster Tommy Watson has signed his first professional contract with the club.

The teenage winger has penned a three-year deal to extend his stay on Wearside until the summer of 2026.

Easington-born Watson first joined the Academy of Light when registering for the Under-9s and has since gone on to feature for every age bracket.

In an impressive 2022-23 campaign, he registered 16 goals and assists across the Under-18 Premier League and Premier League 2.

At 17 years and ten days old, Watson was then handed his senior debut against Huddersfield Town in the Championship in April, replacing Patrick Roberts as a second-half substitute.

He has also gained international recognition with England Under-17s, earning five caps for the Young Lions.

The winger returned to first-team training earlier this week after recovering from a back injury.

"I am delighted to continue my journey here at Sunderland," said Watson. "I have had a frustrating time recently with injuries, but a lot of hard work has gone in to get to this moment.

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"I would like to thank all the staff who have supported me over the years and my team-mates for being there with me every step of the way.

"This is only just the start and I know I am at the right place to continue my development."

Sunderland academy manager, Robin Nicholls, added: “We are delighted to continue the journey with Tommy.

"He has been with the club since he was a young child and the signing of this first professional contract is a testament to the hard work and dedication of himself, his family, and the Academy staff.

"Tommy has shown himself to be an exciting and dynamic attacking player and has really kicked on since leaving school and joining the club full-time.

"He has been recognised internationally and has been part of several of the recent England U17 squads. We believe we have the right environment and pathway to ensure he gets many more opportunities."