Everton Under-18s midfielder Jack Patterson has signed a first professional contract with the Club, penning a three-year deal until the end of June 2025.

Northern Ireland youth international Patterson joined the Blues this summer from Irish Premiership side Crusaders, where he holds the record as the club’s youngest-ever player.

Patterson made his senior debut for the Belfast-based team aged just 15 years and 78 days in January 2021.

The midfielder, who turned 17 earlier this month, revealed how Everton already “feels like home” and explained why Under-18s head coach Leighton Baines is an ideal mentor.

“To get a professional contract as a footballer is every young boy’s dream,” Patterson told evertonfc.com.

“It means so much to me, my family, and everyone back in my hometown of Ballyclare.

“I’ve settled in very well ever since I joined Everton in the summer. From day one, the players have really taken me in. It feels like I’ve been here for years.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with Leighton Baines. He’s a very humble and down-to-earth person. He’s one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met in football and I love playing for him.

“He understands the game so well. I remember him as a player and he was incredible, so it’s great to learn from someone who has been there and done it at the highest level.”