Eighteen-year-old defender Isaac Hayden has signed a new contract with Arsenal Football Club.

The under-21s captain made his first-team debut in the Gunners’ Capital One Cup victory over West Bromwich Albion last September and has since provided regular cover for Arsène Wenger’s side, featuring as an unused substitute on five occasions this term.

As under-19s skipper, Hayden has helped the academy side to a place in the last 16 of the UEFA Youth League this season. In 2012/13, he was also a key part of the team to reach the NextGen Series finals weekend in Lake Como, Italy.

Hayden is an England youth international, and has represented his country at under-16, 17, 18 and 19 level.

The Essex-born youngster signed professional terms with Arsenal in 2012, having joined the Club from Southend United in 2008.

Everyone at Arsenal looks forward to Isaac’s continued development and contribution in the coming years.