Former Hastings United defender Benn Ward has signed his first professional contract with Burnley.

The 18-year-old, who has also at Albion’s academy for a time, has agreed a deal running until June 2025.

He moved north from Hastings early last year and has played for Clarets at both under-18 and under-23 level.

Ward, born and bred in Hastings, is a powerful centre-back who can also play in midfield.

He told burnleyfootballclub.com: “Burnley is a great club and a great place to be.

“I’ve progressed so much already in the time I’ve been here that securing my future long-term was a no-brainer.

“I’m still young and I have a lot to learn, but this is the right place for me to do just that. I want to gain more experience, and it goes without saying that the ambition has to be to eventually get myself into the first-team setup.”

Ward has trained with the first team under the guidance of boss Vincent Kompany.

He made his Hastings debut at the age of 16.

Daniel Storer, managing director of MONDO Sports Management, who represent Ward, said: “We are delighted for Benn in signing his first professional contract in the EFL Championship with Burnley.

“Benn’s achievement is a reflection of all the hard work and dedication that resulted in great success in recent years at under-18 and under-21 level, and it was only a matter of time before this was recognised.

“Benn is definitely one to watch and will no doubt make his mark in the professional game.”