Finn Tapp has signed his first professional deal with MK Dons.
The 18-year-old defender has put pen-to-paper on a one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months, which will enable him to continue his development at Stadium MK.
Tapp, who has been with the Club since the age of eight, made his first-team debut for the Dons in the Checkatrade Trophy defeat against Norwich City in 2016.
Since then, the commanding central defender has played an important role in helping the Under-18s reach the Fourth Round of the FA Youth Cup and top their Youth Alliance League table. Tapp has also been a regular fixture for the Under-23s, helping them reach two finals this season.
Speaking to iFollow MK Dons after penning his first deal, the youngster said, “I’m ecstatic, after being with the Club for 10 years, to put pen-to-paper on a contract – I couldn’t be happier.
“I can remember watching MK Dons at the National Hockey Stadium and as an Under-8 when I started training with the Club. I’ve been here for most of the life so MK Dons has a special place in my heart.”
Interim Academy Manager Simon Dwight, who has worked with Tapp since his arrival at the Club, said: “I’m delighted for Finn - his attitude towards work this year has been superb. He is a hard worker, a leader and has demonstrated his qualities as captain for the Under-18s this season.
“I first met Finn when he was eight-years-old and he’s developed into a fine young man - hopefully, he develops into a fine player in the future for MK Dons.
“Finn has embraced the education programme that the Academy delivers and everything that he’s put his mind to he’s achieved - that makes him good material for the first-team.
Dwight added, “He has the presence of a resistant, knowledgeable young man that others will follow. The step up for him now is to take on what he already knows and turn that into a professional mentality to succeed in a first-team environment.”
Senior Phase Development Coach Edu Rubio added: “I’m very pleased for Finn. He’s had a very good season but, not only that, he’s been one of our best players in the Academy over the years and I’m delighted that he’s been given a contract.
“I think Finn’s leadership, his steadiness and his communication skills have always been very good both on and off the pitch. Sometimes you need certain players to take your ideas on the pitch and make sure the team stay calm in moments of panic – Finn provides that.
“He’s been crucial for the Under-18s, where he’s been captain and has been a very important player for the Under-23s. I am truly delighted that he’s signed a contract with us.”
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