Newcastle United hand Shane Ferguson new five-year deal

Ferguson made his debut in August, featuring seven times in total

Newcastle United have handed winger Shane Ferguson a new five-year deal at St James' Park, following his first-team breakthrough this season.

Ferguson, 19, made his full debut for the Magpies against Accrington Stanley in August's 3-2 Carling Cup win, and went on to make seven appearances.

"I've enjoyed this season and the new contract has just been the icing on the cake," Ferguson told the club website.

"The support I've had from the fans since making my debut means a lot."

He added: "I'm just delighted to be with Newcastle for the next five years now."

Ferguson, who has one international cap for Northern Ireland but is expected to switch allegiance to Republic of Ireland, joined Newcastle from Derry City in July 2007, and signed a three-year professional deal at St James' Park in June 2009.