Jonny Rowell signed his first professional contract with Pools this afternoon and admitted he was raring to go.

The youngster is tipped for big things at the Club and he told the Official Website just how he is feeling,

"It's very exciting, it's obviously a big step up to what I am used to, it'll be a lot more physical but I'm really looking forward to it.

"I started playing football when I was about eight and I have been associated with clubs since then and this is what I have always wanted to do.

"To finally get there and sign a professional deal is very pleasing."

Rowell's ability has earned him a contract ahead of schedule, with most Youth Team players having to wait until the end of the campaign to find out their future.

And, as the midfielder reveals, this has given him a big confidence boost,

"It gives me confidence in my own ability that they gave me the contract so early one. That hasn't really been done in the past and so that gives me a bit of a boost.

"I think this is a very good Club to be a young player with - I have been given the opportunity in the Reserves this season and the Manager has explained that, if I work hard enough and do well, then I could be in the First Team in the next year."