Republic of Ireland international, Michael Obafemi, has signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract with Southampton.
A graduate of the Southampton academy, Obafemi made his senior debut against Tottenham in January 2018, becoming the second-youngest player to feature for the club in the Premier League, and under new manager Ralph Hasenhuttl he has become a regular first-team starter.
The 18-year-old, who made his Republic of Ireland debut against Denmark in November, has committed his future to the Saints by signing a new deal which will keep him at St Mary’s until June 2022.
“It’s a good day. I’m happy that it’s done and now I’m looking to move forward,” Obafemi commented. “I’ll always be thankful to the club for sticking by me, and I just want to show everyone what I’ve got.
“I’m determined to show the fans and everyone at the club why I’ve been given a three-and-a-half-year deal.”
Hasenhüttl commented: “Young players like Michael represent a big part of the future of Southampton, so this is an important day for him and also for the club.
“Already, he has shown to me he can have a big impact in our games and, with the right guidance and also with the right approach from him, I think this influence will increase.
“This is a big day for Michael, but I think what is most important now is that he realises this is the start for him, and that he must use this as a base to make the next steps in his development.
“There is still a great amount of potential for Michael to fulfil and a lot for him to achieve, and this is the best place for him to do it, so he must focus on working as hard and professionally as possible to make sure he becomes the player I believe he can be.”