Carlisle United striker Sam Fishburn has spoken out about signing his first professional contract.

Sam Fishburn United's new striker has had an eventful start to his footballing career.

He has turned a two-year scholarship, which was agreed ahead of the 2021-22 season into a two year senior deal.

Mr Fishburn spoke to Carlisle United about this, he said: "When I found out I was getting a two-year deal I was over the moon.

"I was just so excited and I couldn’t wait to get going.

"It’s mad how far I’ve come in a year really. I’ve always believed in myself so it’s just been a case of working hard.

"If you work hard you get the benefits.

"When I was first told I was getting a contract I just wanted to get started straight away with the first team."

The centre forward finished his last campaign scoring more goals than any other player in the country at under 18 level.

His reputation his growing massively so much so that he has earned a seat in the manager's office.

Around this time last year he was still playing on the junior circuits in the north east.

Sam is now playing against senior and experienced players.

He told Carlisle United's website of the joy his parents had when they received the good news.

Mr Fishburn said: "I think my family were even happier than I was. My mam was so excited.

"They’ve taken me all over the place over the last few years so they’ve been a massive part of me getting to where I am now.

"I’m really grateful to them and I just want to keep making them proud.

"It did take a while for the news to sink in but I think I’ve got my head around it a bit now.

"The other lads have had the usual banter with me, but that’s what lads are like.

Sam seems to be dealing with his amazing progress very well.

Mr Fishburn said: "I only came here last year, I was sat in my house one night and someone from the club rang my mam and said they wanted me to come over to train.

"I came the week after and trained for a couple of days, then they said they wanted to sign me.

"As soon as I knew Carlisle were interested I couldn’t wait to get over and see what it was like."

The strong goalscorer did take some time to find his feet as he didn't score in his first four matches but was able to quickly redeem himself.

Sam concluded: "It’s a great experience to play in the friendlies, I think there was about 700 fans at Penrith and I’ve never played in front of that many people before.

"It’s totally different with fans in but hopefully I’ll get more chances to play in front of them soon."