Port Vale have handed Tommy McDermott his first professional contract, with the club’s Academy Player of the Year agreeing a three-year deal with the option of a further 12-month extension.
Director of Football, David Flitcroft, told Vale’s website: “Tommy was introduced to the squad before our trip to La Cala and he was exceptional in pre-season camp where he has shown a level of professionalism beyond his years.
“The length of the contract gives Tommy the time to develop. He is a player that will develop physically, technically and tactically over time and we have got to give ourselves and Tommy that time to reach his potential.
“We have seen how the players react to him and they’re really comfortable with what support he gives them on the pitch. He has shown real aggression and footballing talent to earn this contract.
“If Darrell Clarke and this football club are giving you a contract, you have to earn it and Tommy has done just that.
“Now it gives him great time to naturally develop all aspects of his game and we can’t wait to see him grow into the player we know he can be.”
