SAINTS striker Dom Ballard has signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him at the club until 2026.

The 18-year-old penned new terms after an impressive season that saw him make his first team debut in the EFL Cup, FA Cup, and Premier League, score his first senior goal, and lift the Premier League 2 Division Two title.

Across all academy age groups, the prolific youngster scored 27 goals in 34 games and was nominated for the PL2 player of the season award.

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After committing his future to Saints, the starlet said: “It’s a big honour for me, I’ve been here since the age of eight so it’s been a long journey but one that I’m looking forward to continuing.

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“I think there’s a lot more to come from me and I think it’s going to be an exciting year. I always like to set my goals high so of course playing in the Under-21s is big for me, making sure I stand out in those games and pushing the team.

"But my aim this year is definitely to try and cement my place around the first team. Of course, it’s hard work to be done but I’m looking forward to that challenge.”