Manchester United star, Lauren James, has announced she has signed a new contract with the club.

This will be the midfielder’s first professional contract as a senior player after an impressive start to the beginning of the WSL season. James has been instrumental for the club and in 39 appearances she has scored 24 goals.

Her manager at Manchester United, former England international Casey Stoney, has already tipped the 18-year-old for future success.

"I think if you speak to anyone who has been around Lauren, trained with her and worked with her, they know how good she is," Stoney said.

"I genuinely believe she can become the best player in the world and one of the best players in the world for a long time."

Stoney added: “Lauren is an exceptional talent; she is one of the most technically gifted players I have worked with.

“It’s great to see her sign her first professional, contract at this club and I have no doubt that if she continues to work hard she will have a bright future ahead of her.”

The news James has signed a three-year contract puts to bed speculation she might follow former Manchester United captain Alex Greenwood’s move to Europe. Greenwood left United this summer to begin her first season at Champions League winners Lyon.

James released a statement through her Twitter page saying it was a ‘proud moment announcing I have signed my first professional contract with @manutdwomen.

“I’m so excited to see what we can achieve together in 2020 and beyond. To my teammates, my coach, the fans and of course, my family, thank you for all the support.”