POPULAR teenager Scott Twine will play for Swindon Town beyond his teenager years after penning a two-and-a-half year deal this afternoon.

The teenager has been part of Town’s successful academy setup since the age of 12, progressing through the respective age groups before he made his debut for his home-town club in April 2017 – appearing as a second half substitute against Charlton.

Twine, 19, has since learnt on the job and was last year loaned out to Chippenham Town to be a part of Mark Collier’s attacking threats in their first season of step-two non-league football.

His successful loan period at Hardenhuish Park prompted his re-call in February – he went on to make four appearances under Phil Brown before scoring at the 13th attempt against York City in the FA Cup.

A goal against Stevenage in November has been Twine’s only goal under current Town boss Richie Wellens, but his efforts on the training ground have proven valid to warrant a contract extension.

Twine’s deal ensures he remains at SN1 until June 2021, and the 19-year-old revealed his love for the club made it a comfortable decision to extend his stay at Town beyond his teenage years.

He told the club’s official website: “I’m happy to have signed. I’ve loved being at the club for the past seven or eight years, especially being with the first-team the last couple of years. Last season was great to make my first start and this season has meant more progression playing under the Gaffer.

“I was relieved to get that first goal against York – it had been a while coming. Hopefully, I can score a lot more in the next two-and-half-years here.

“The fans have been brilliant to me since I’ve been playing so I’m thankful to them because when they sing my name, nothing compares to it. It’s brilliant.”

Town boss Richie Wellens added that Twine’s extension is part of his long-term plans to develop a framework in the squad which he can work around.

He added: "It’s great news for Scott (Twine) – it gives a chance to help him continue his development and show he is part of our plans for the long term.

"Every club’s fans want players to play that are from the local area and it helps the affinity with the club and supporters – but he won’t get picked just for that. He’ll get picked on his merit and the hard work, for him, starts now."