We are pleased to confirm that Andre Changunda has penned his first professional contract at the football club.
Changunda, who turned 18 last week, completed the formalities at the Weston Homes Stadium this week and will continue his development within the Professional Development Phase of the Academy.
The winger made his first team debut as a substitute on the final day of the season at Rotherham United and captained the Under 18s to the PDL Cup success over Sheffield United.
Academy Director Dan Robinson said: "Andre had a good end to the season, captaining the Under 18s to victory in the PDL Cup and then making his first team debut.
"We are looking forward to seeing his development into the new campaign. He can play on both sides, has good balance, excellent ball control and will offer something different to others because of his versatility. He will be a mainstay in the Under 21s and will be looking to push on from there."
Changunda believes the current pathway at the football club is perfect for his development. "Firstly, it feels really good to be wanted and for me, I know that there is a pathway, there are opportunities for me, it is down to me to make the most of those opportunities.
"I do think that is really important, at other clubs you won't necessarily have that clear pathway. I felt I had a decent end to last season, I got a taste of first team football and of course, that is the main aim, but the first task is to become a regular in the Under 21s," Changunda said.