Exeter City are delighted to announce that four of our academy graduates have signed new contracts.
Matt Jay, Josh Key, Harry Kite and Cheick Diabate have all penned new deals in recent weeks, committing their long term future to the club.
MJ has quickly become a fan favourite this season, notching his 12th goal of the season in league and cup last week against Stevenage and has now played over 100 times in red and white since his professional debut in 2013 - reaching the century in December 2020 against Tranmere Rovers.
Josh Key has had a breakthrough season for the Grecians, scoring his first professional goal in September 2020 against Forest Green before following up two weeks later with his first league goal at Mansfield. Having played predominantly at right back early in the season, Josh has shown his capabilities despite being just 21 years old.
Harry Kite scored his first professional goal for the Grecians in our 4-3 EFL Trophy away win at Swindon Town in October and found the net in the same competition against West Brom a month later. Crediton born Kite made his professional debut versus Yeovil Town in 2017.
Noticed at EFL exit trials by the club and noted for his physical and mental attributes, Cheick Diabate signed his first pro deal in June 2020 and the 19-year-old came off the bench for his debut first appearance in the EFL Trophy win over West Brom.
Speaking about the four new deals, manager Matt Taylor said: “We are delighted to tie down these four talented players who have all come through the academy.
“Josh Key has been one of our stand out performers this season, especially when coming in at right back and he has earned this new deal.
“It also gives the club a bit of security and stability. What a great lad he is and a great reflection on his family. His attitude is second to none and he really cares about this football club.
“MJ is in the form of his life and he kept his shirt, making the position his own. He’s pushing 20 goals this season if he carries on, which is incredible for an attacking midfielder.
“Since the first lockdown his fitness has massively improved. He’s a top finisher - the best at our football club and there is more to come from him because he is constantly learning what is needed from him. I’m pleased we’ve tied him down because there was interest.
“Harry is going to play. He might not feature every minute of every game but he will play. He’s earmarked for the future. He’s such a strong player for his age and he’s absolutely desperate for more game time and with our schedule, he is definitely going to get an opportunity.
“I know not many of our supporters will have seen much of Cheick. He has a fantastic physical profile. When you’ve got a stature like his you’ve got an exciting starting point. He’s a really exciting prospect.”