EXCITING Saints youngster Kamari Doyle has signed his first professional contract with the club, the Daily Echo can reveal.

The 17-year-old, who made his debut for Dave Horseman’s B team when he was just 15, is signed up on pro terms at St Mary’s, although the length of the deal is not yet known.

Following his birthday on Monday, the pre-signed contract has kicked in and the promising starlet is protected from potential interest elsewhere.

Free-kick wizard Doyle had a stellar goalscoring season in the under-18s run to the Premier League South title, including scoring versus Manchester City in the National final.

It is a success for Doyle to follow in the path of scholar of the year, Dom Ballard, and sign pro terms, after fellow prodigy Tyler Dibling will complete his publicised exit to Chelsea.

However, England youth international midfielder, Doyle, has suffered a minor injury setback.

During the 4-0 victory over Watford under-23s last weekend, Doyle suffered an ankle ligament injury that could keep him out for up to 10-12 weeks.

He arrived at the B team’s final pre-season match versus AFC Totton in a protective brace, and will play no part in the beginning of the Premier League 2 season.

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