Central defender Tyler Blackett has been rewarded for his impressive step-up to senior football with Manchester United, signing a new two-and-half year deal.
With an option to extend the contract for another year, the 20-year-old has proven his worth in 10 appearances for the Red Devils this season, ensuring he will now remain at Old Trafford until June 2017.
Blackett came through the academy and was handed his debut against Swansea City on the opening day of the season – following a commanding pre-season campaign and a significant lack of defensive options for Louis van Gaal.
The Dutchman commented on the completion of a new deal for the youngster, saying: “I am delighted that Tyler has signed a new contract.
“He is another young player that has risen through the Academy system to break into the first-team squad this season.
“Tyler has great potential and I believe he is at the right club to continue his development and progression to become a great defender.”
Manchester born-and-bred, Blackett joined United in the summer of 2002 at the tender age of 8. Nevertheless, with his height and dominant physique, he played a prominent role in the FA Youth Cup success of 2011.
Able to feature as a left-back and left wing-back, the former England youth international recently accepted loan switches to Championship outfits Blackpool and Birmingham City before featuring for the Reds in August.
He also spoke about his future with the former Premier League winners, adding: “I’m thrilled to have signed my new contract. I have supported United all my life and have been here since I was eight years old.
“To come through the Academy and make my debut this season was a dream come true. I want to keep improving within the first-team squad with the help of the manager, coaches and the players around me.”
Tyler Blackett is believed to have secured a 1000% wage increase with a reported £20,000-a-week deal.