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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