AFC Fylde are delighted to announce that academy product Cullen Meadowcroft has signed his first professional deal with the football club.

The young defender, who starred in this year’s record-equaling FA Youth Cup side, will link up with the First Team after impressing in a number of involvements within the First-Team set up.

After joining the club’s academy set up at the age of 16, Cullen has always been recognised as an outstanding ball-playing defender who can also comfortably step into a midfield role.

He played a key part in this year’s FA Youth Cup side who became the final Non-League side to remain in the competition, and were very unlucky to not set up a fifth round tie with Manchester City.

Meadowcroft has also been captaining the Under 19’s side, coached by Sean Landin and Nathan Delfouneso.  

The defender becomes yet another player involved in the first team who has risen through the ranks at Mill Farm, again showcasing the unbelievable work being done within the AFC Fylde Academy.

Speaking on signing his first professional deal, Cullen said: “I’m over the moon and it’s a dream come true.

“The staff in the academy have been brilliant and I’ve kicked off so much as a player and a person.

“It’s been amazing (playing in the Youth Cup) and we usually do well in the competition. Last year was a great run with a great set of lads.

“I’m just looking to impress the new Head Coach whoever comes in and get as many minutes under my belt.”

Director of Football Stewart Mairs added: “Given the recent successes with the likes of Danny Ormerod and Taelor O’Kane, it’s important to maintain the excellent integration and pathway from our Academy to First Team.

“The academy have produced another excellent defender in Cullen who has so many impressive qualities. He’s strong for his age, he’s a good ball player and he’ll be a brilliant asset in the years to come.

“We’ve watched him in a number of bounce games in a range of different roles and he has really stood out. He can play with both feet, and he’s an exciting prospect that we’re very keen to work with and see develop.”

Everyone at the club congratulates Cullen on his first deal and wishes him all the best ahead of the upcoming season.

The deal is subject to FA and National League approval.