The Magpies have dished out three new contracts in an exciting move that could benefit United in years to come
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Newcastle United have handed former Port Vale wonder kid Michael Mills his first professional deal.
The teenager arrived from the Valiants as a 14-year-old and has quickly progressed through the ranks before landing a new pro contract. The left winger impressed in the FA Youth Cup against Portsmouth with two goals in a 5-2 win and celebrated a new deal with Alfie Hutchison and Oliver Goodbrand.
Mills told Newcastleunited.com: “I'm pleased because it shows all the work I've been putting in over the years has come together to then be offered a contract. I know the work's not finished and I have to keep going.
"The move to Newcastle has helped me mature a lot. There's been a lot of ups and downs with two injuries (toe and hamstring) that have never happened to me before.
"They have helped me grow mentally and persevere through difficult moments. I've developed quite easily on the pitch and think I'm getting closer to Newcastle's playing style.
"It's a big jump to play under-21s football but I feel those challenges will be good for my development."
Goodbrand, a defender with Scottish youth caps, arrived from Rangers but his future is on Tyneside. He said: “I'm really pleased to sign my first professional contract. I've worked really hard for it. I came here over six months ago so I'm buzzing to get it signed. It's a proud moment.
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"I always had a good feeling about the club when I arrived and met the staff. They were all great so it made the decision a lot easier.
"When I was at Rangers, I was used to living away from my family but it's different to move to a new country. At first, it took me a while to get used to but I've totally settled in and I'm loving it."
Hutchison, a striker also signed from the Gers, said: "Signing my first pro contract is a big accomplishment and something I've been working towards ever since I started playing football. I'm over the moon.
"This club is really promising and the standards are really high. There's a lot of good coaches and staff, even the cooks and cleaners. It's in great shape and makes me want to stay here for as long as I can.
"I was very pleased to make my under-21s debut. You want to progress through the age groups as quickly as possible so the fact I've done that in six months is a good step.
"I want to try and make more appearances and get in the squad more often."
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