West Ham United academy goalkeeper Sam Howes has signed his first professional contract with the Premier League club.

The 17-year-old shot-stopper has penned a two-and-a-half-year deal at Upton Park.

Howes made his first-team debut for the Hammers during the club's summer tour of New Zealand.

"It's a really proud day for me, my family and all the coaches," the teenager told West Ham's official website. "It's nice to see that all the hard work has paid off.

"I was in shock when I found out the contract was coming. I wasn't expecting to get a professional contract. Since I've known, it's been hard to not tell anyone, but it's a very special day."

West Ham are back in action on November 22 when they travel to Everton in the Premier League.