Sunderland's Duncan Watmore signs long-term contract until 2020

Duncan Watmore continues to combat preconceptions about his profession.

On Sunday, the 21-year-old winger put pen to paper on a new long-term deal with Sunderland that will keep him at the Stadium of Light until the summer of 2020.

(Courtesy: Sunderland)

Watmore, who holds a first-class honours degree in economics and business management from Newcastle University, has made five Premier League appearances this season since being handed his first-team debut by Gus Poyet in Sunderland's 3-1 defeat at home to Norwich City and, unbelievably, scoring in the fixture. He also tallied a goal in the Black Cats' 6-3 victory over Exeter City in the Capital One Cup.

Speaking about Watmore's new deal, Sam Allardyce said: "Duncan is an exciting prospect and the kind of talent you want to see coming through at your club. He is a bright young man, he has a sensible head on his shoulders and if he continues to make the kind of progress we have seen this season, I am sure that he has a great future ahead of him."

Louise Taylor of the Guardian explains what makes Watmore so special:

Although it is far too early to assess Watmore’s long-term potential, the early indications are encouraging. Certainly a young man who displayed determination and discipline in combining studying for his degree - often burning the midnight oil as he pored over textbooks - with training will not be found wanting in the dedication department.

Technically, too, the signs seem promising. Despite being right-footed he is happy to operate on either flank and can also play in a more central attacking capacity.

At the international level, Watmore is part of the England Under-21 squad. He came off the bench in phenomenal fashion Monday to help Gareth Southgate's side claim a 3-1 win over Switzerland Under-21 by winning a penalty, scoring a goal, and setting up the third.