Promising South African midfielder Kgaogelo Chauke has signed his first professional contract with Premier League side Southampton.
After celebrating his 17th birthday last month, Chauke has signed a two and a half year contract with the English side famous for the development of exceptional talent.
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Chauke has made rapid strides in the club's esteemed academy moving from U17 to U23 level before making an appearance in the EFL Trophy competition.
"I'm really proud because I've been working for this moment. Pleased to see the work paying off," Chauke told the club's website."It's special because growing up I've had a lot of help from my family.
"Being able to share this with them is a proud moment. In the back of my mind, I knew that if I put the right work in that this moment was achievable."
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Academy director Matt Hale lauded the South African talent who is said to be attracting interest from the England junior national team selectors since his arrival from Thatcham Town in 2017.
"Kegs has shown tremendous progress since joining us partway through his Under-15 season," Hale said.
"He has learnt so much and showed a real curiosity to develop. He has strong listening skills, an acceptance to take on information and applies his learning really well in games.
"The coaches enjoy working with him and I'm looking forward to watching him develop further over the new few years."
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