Blackett pens new United deal

Defender Tyler Blackett has signed a new contract with Manchester United, which runs to June 2017 with the option of an extra year.

Manchester United have handed a new contract to Tyler Blackett, which sees the defender committed to Old Trafford until at least June 2017.

Academy product Blackett, 20, made his debut for United against Swansea City on the opening day of the 2014-15 Premier League season and has gone on to make 10 appearances in all for the club.

He has been rewarded for his progress with a fresh two-and-a-half-year deal, with an option to extend his stay for a further 12 months.

“I am delighted that Tyler has signed a new contract,” said United manager Louis van Gaal.

“He is another young player that has risen through the academy system to break into the first-team squad this season.

“Tyler has great potential and I believe he is at the right club to continue his development and progression to become a great defender.”

Blackett added: “I’m thrilled to have signed my new contract. I have supported United all my life and have been here since I was eight years old.

“To come through the academy and make my debut this season was a dream come true.

“I want to keep improving within the first-team squad with the help of the manager, coaches and the players around me.”

United handed new terms to another of their young defenders earlier this month, 19-year-old Paddy McNair also signing on until 2017 with the option for a further year.

Later on Thursday, the club announced that Reece James, 21, had also extended his contract. The left-back made his senior debut for United in the League Cup defeat to MK Dons in August and has since had a loan spell at Rotherham United.