Mansfield Town midfielder Jack Thomas, (19), has signed a new deal with the club.

Thomas, who grew up in Mansfield Woodhouse, becomes the first current player to renew his contract ahead of the 2016-17 campaign.

The youngster, a product from the Stags’ youth system, has made 15 league starts, appearing 18 times from the substitutes’ bench.

“I believe in what the gaffer’s {Adam Murray] building here and I want to be a part of it,” said Thomas.

“It means everything to me and it’s good to know where I’m going to play next year heading into the summer. I didn’t want to be going into the summer not knowing where I was going to be playing.”

Discussing the influence of managing Adam Murray, who he feels has made a massive impact on the direction of his career, Thomas said: “He was the main reason why I did [sign a contract].

“I’ve been here four years now and he’s been brilliant with me and I really do believe in him. I really do believe I wouldn’t be here without him – I think I would’ve been released, so I can’t thank him enough.

“He’s just told me I’m a big part of his plans and [to] just show everyone next year what you’re capable of.”