Exciting midfield prospect Sam Hughes has signed a new deal keeping him with Chester FC until the end of the 2016-17 season.
The teenager has started the last six league games for the Blues and has now been rewarded for his eye-catching performances with a new 12-month contract on improved terms.
A product of the club's academy, the 18-year-old has showed a maturity beyond his years and supporters are excited at his potential.
While he has urged caution over putting too much pressure on Hughes' shoulders, boss Steve Burr has been thrilled with his progress.
Burr has praised Hughes' progress from being invited to train with the first-team last summer and earning his first professional contract to forcing himself onto the bench and then breaking into the side.
"Sam's done great since he's come in and we've been delighted with his progress," said Burr.
"He's a lad who wants to learn and he's got a lot going for him. He's still got a lot to learn but so far he's heading in the right direction.
"Sam came in as one of the four trialists out of the youth team in pre-season and won himself a contract, he then won himself a place on the bench and then got himself into the team so the progress is there.
"There will be little setbacks with him because as a young lad that can happen but at the moment he's going in the right direction and I've been absolutely delighted with him."
Wirral-born Hughes made his league debut back in September during the defeat to Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park and had a spell on loan at Witton Albion before Christmas.
He has scored twice in 12 National League appearances, both goals coming in the 8-2 demolition of Aldershot Town, and will extend his run of starts this weekend against rivals Wrexham with Burr hoping Hughes enjoys his first cross-border derby experfience.
"As a young lad what a great opportunity for him to go and play in a game like that this weekend," said Burr.
"I've always said that for both sets of players to play in games like this at this level is fantastic. There'll be a big crowd but as a player I used to love nothing more than that and young, old or whatever age you are you rise to the occasion."
