Promising Nigerian youngster Davon Gbajumo has signed his first professional contract with Southampton after overcoming an injury-hit start to life at the club, Footynaija.com reports.
The 18-year-old full-back has committed his future to the Saints with a two-year deal, marking another important step in his development since joining Southampton from Peterborough United last summer.
Gbajumo’s journey through the English football system began at grassroots level, and his performances attracted the attention of Chelsea where he spent some time before eventually continuing his development with Peterborough.
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He impressed during his time with Peterborough’s academy, featuring for their Under-18 and Under-21 sides before making the move to Southampton.
However, his first year with the Saints did not go entirely to plan after injuries disrupted his progress and limited his opportunities.
Despite those setbacks, the youngster has impressed Southampton’s decision makers with his approach and they believe he can make significant progress during the new campaign.
Director of Group Talent Strategy Andy Goldie praised Gbajumo for the way he responded during the difficult period he spent on the sidelines.
“Davon had a challenging start to his time at Southampton, but has overcome those injuries and is focusing on earning game time with the Under-21s,” Goldie said.
“He’s been very consistent with his approach despite the early setbacks, and has remained focused on his development as we hope he can make progress this season.”
The new contract gives Gbajumo the opportunity to put those setbacks behind him as he looks to establish himself as a regular for Southampton’s Under-21 side.
For the Nigerian youngster, the immediate objective will be to stay fit, earn consistent playing time and continue developing the qualities that convinced Southampton to hand him his first professional terms.
Having already negotiated his way through several stages of the English academy system, Gbajumo will now hope his latest milestone can become the foundation for a breakthrough into senior football.
