FINN Cousin-Dawson has signed a new long-term contract as City continue to show faith in the club’s rising talent.

The 18-year-old defender has penned a contract that will keep him at Valley Parade until at least the summer of 2024.

Cousin-Dawson has started the last five games at right back since Mark Trueman and Conor Sellars took the City reins. He has made 12 senior appearances in total.

“I know this means an awful lot to Finn and his family,” said interim boss Trueman.

“It is testament to the way he has performed since Conor and I have come in and shown faith in him to play at right-back.

“He is a player we obviously know very well, having worked with him for over two years in the academy, and we have no doubts about his character, personality and ability.

“It is great to see yet another product of our academy putting performances in for the first team, and this new contract is very much deserved with that in mind.

“The importance of breeding youngsters through the club is huge, and this news on Finn will hopefully be the latest of much more to come over years ahead.

“We are looking forward to seeing him continue to develop and perform as well as we know he can, as we aim to continue picking up positive results.”

Cousin-Dawson is one of five academy products to turn pro for City in the last year.

He said: “Personally, it is a massive achievement for myself and a very proud moment for me and my family.

“I was desperate to get it done and make sure I stay at the club for a lot longer - to allow me to concentrate fully on the future and continue to help the team progress.

“It shows all young players coming through our academy now that there is a pathway at the football club.

“Five of us signed professional contracts this year and a few of us have enjoyed quite a lot of game time, too.

“This helps me concentrate on my football a lot more and focus solely on putting in good performances and hopefully helping the team keep winning.”