Southend United winger Michael Kightly has hailed signing his first professional contract with the Shrimpers as "a dream come true".
Joy unbounded - Michael Kightly celebrates scoring against Luton in the LDV Vans, his first senior goal Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY
The Benfleet-based 17-year-old has signed an 18-month deal with the Third Division side after producing a string of fine performances for the revitalised Blues.
"It's fantastic for me," Kightly said today.
"All I've ever wanted to be is a professional footballer and, now I've signed this contract, that's what I am - so it's a dream come true.
"It's great to have got everything sorted out and to play for the team I used to come and watch when I was younger."
Kightly, who has started the Seasiders last three games, also revealed he had been enjoying his recent exploits for the Roots Hall outfit.
"It's been a great couple of weeks for me to be honest," said the former Tottenham Hotspur youngster.
"I started the FA Cup game with Lincoln which we won 3-0 and then I scored my first senior goal in the next game against Luton.
"That's the best feeling I've ever had -- I was buzzing when that went in and hopefully there's more of them to come."
Published Tuesday December 16, 2003
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