New Zealand-born Chris James has made a stunning rise through the soccer ranks, signing a professional contract with Fulham in the English Premier League today.
The 18-year-old midfielder made the breakthrough into Fulham's reserves last season and travelled to Austria for the club's pre-season tour last week.
"It's a big
day for me," James, an England Youth International told the club's website.
"I come from New Zealand which isn't a big footballing country so I'm quite proud to be here."
"I joined Fulham as an okay player but the coaches have helped me and pushed me along. I progressed well and managed to get a lot of reserve games last year.
"It's now all about progressing and pushing hard for the first team."
Fulham manager Chris Coleman believes James has a bright future ahead but warned he faces a spell out on loan before he is given his chance in the premiership.
"Chris is a good, technical player. He's a good passer and has a nice touch on the ball," Coleman said.
"He's another good prospect and hopefully with a bit of hard work and luck, he could follow the footsteps of Zesh Rehman and some of the other academy boys.
"Before I put the guys in with our first team in the premiership, I like them to go out on loan to clubs in the lower leagues to cut their teeth and see if they can handle that.
"One or two of our boys have done that and we've seen some great rewards.
"We'll be looking at Chris to do the same thing."
James signed on the dotted line at Motspur Park and was accompanied by his parents Terry and Christine James.
Chris has been a central figure in a number of England Youth sides over recent seasons and has accumulated nearly 30 caps. Last season saw him make the breakthrough into Fulham's reserve team.
"I moved over when I was 13-years old and managed to join Fulham. It's been a good, solid five years and I'd like to be at Fulham a lot longer."
James is believed to be one of the players All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has spoken to regarding his availability for New Zealand.
Herbert is in England at present.
- NZPA
