CALLUM Styles has put pen to paper on his first professional contract with Bury.

The 16-year-old signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Gigg Lane after impressing new boss Lee Clark with a cameo appearance off the bench against Chesterfield on Saturday.

The midfielder, who joined the Shakers from Burnley’s youth team 11 months ago, made his first-team debut in controversial fashion in the final game of last season.

Then-manager David Flitcroft brought Styles on as a substitute against Southend but the youngster was not registered and the club were docked three points for his appearance.

His debut made him the first player born in the new millennium to play in the Football League, but Styles has since gone on to make six first-team appearances and manager Clark is hoping there will be plenty more to come.

“I am delighted he has been able to sign a new contract,” Clark told the Bury Times.

“It’s his first professional contract, he’s an exciting talent and still very young.

“His parents came in today and we got it all signed.

“I was delighted with the 30 minutes he had on Saturday, he showed real quality.

“I know we have sold other youngsters from the academy but I am genuinely excited to work with Callum.

“I only look at ability, not birth certificates. I won’t be afraid of using him in the 13 key games we have coming up.”

Styles’ under-18s manager Ryan Kidd added: “Callum came to us at the tail-end of last season, having been released, surprisingly, from Burnley.

"Mark Litherland (youth and academy manager) had worked with Callum quite a few years ago and told me he is the best talent he has ever coached.

“We beat off several Championship clubs for his signature and it wasn't long before we knew we had someone special in the building.

“Callum has progressed his all-round game this season to new heights and his work rate is now matching his undoubted talent.”