SAINTS have completed the signing of Everton left-back Thierry Small on a three-year professional deal.

The 17-year-old moves to St Mary’s after becoming the youngest ever player to represent the Toffees, aged 16 and 176 days, when he was given an FA Cup debut by Carlo Ancelotti in January.

The youngster reportedly rejected permanent terms with Everton, seeking a chance to play first-team football.

He is a highly sought-after talent with recognised potential, and will provide cover as an understudy to Frenchman Romain Perraud in the Saints squad.

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Solihull-born Small also earned an England under-19 call-up in May and is the third defender to join the squad in the summer transfer window.

Small was a regular for Everton’s under-23s in Premier League 2 despite his young age, and will now look forward to more opportunities to play senior football - just as Tino Livramento has shown.

The hotly-tipped full-back has also spent time playing left-wing and centre-back throughout his youth football years.