Rotherham United would like to congratulate Academy attacker Ben Hatton, who has been rewarded for his excellent performances in the youth setup with his first professional contract.
The 18-year-old has penned a one-year senior deal with Leam Richardson’s side, despite still being ‘contracted’ under a Scholarship agreement which is set to run until the summer of 2024 – with the Millers having the option to extend his newly agreed professional deal by another 12 months until the summer of 2026.
Hatton has been one of the Academy’s shining lights throughout his time in the setup and his performances have not got unnoticed by the first team staff at Roundwood.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed training with the first team group at the training HQ and will continue to work with both the senior and youth setups for the remainder of his scholarship, before joining up with the senior side on a permanent basis at the end of the campaign.
Academy Manager Richard Hairyes heaped praise on the youngster and reiterated that Ben’s achievement was just reward for his consistent performances and hard work within the youth setup.
“If you look at Ben’s performances, not just this season but over a number of years, he has been a standout player for us in a variety positions,” Hairyes told www.themillers.co.uk.
“I think out of everyone who has been rewarded with professional contracts over the last few years, Ben has been one of the most deserving."
“Sometimes young players can be a little ‘up and down’ in their performances, but something that can be said for Ben is that his performance levels are always consistent and it’s always at the top end.
“I think Ben is a player that fans are going to really enjoy seeing play. He’s a really exciting player, that gets you off your seat. He’s added more goals to his game this year and he’s been playing off either side, behind the striker or as a striker as well.
“Everyone who knows Ben will know that he is really passionate about football and always wants to improve his game. Sometimes he can be his own biggest critic, but it is a great trait to have. He knows where he is and he knows where he wants to get to and Ben now will simply be looking at the next step.”