Caleb Roberts Signs Professional Deal
Caleb Roberts has signed his first professional deal with Argyle.
Midfielder Caleb, who turns 17 today, has put pen to paper on a contract just under a week after making his first start in an Argyle shirt, when he began the Papa Johns Trophy game against Crystal Palace Under-21s.
He previously made his competitive debut when coming on as a substitute against Arsenal Under-21s in the competition last season.
Ivybridge Community College student Caleb was understandably delighted when speaking to Argyle TV about the journey that has been more than a decade in the making.
“It’s amazing,” he said. “It’s been a dream for years, since I’ve been playing football. It’s slowly come together.
“I found out a while ago. I had to keep it quiet, and then coming up to the time I thought about it more. Now it is my birthday, I can sign the contract.
“From playing DJM, Sunday league football, it has been a dream just to be a professional footballer. There’s still a long way to go but making a career in the game is what I want to do, and I’m just at the start of the journey.
“I got scouted at a park – I think I might have been six. I was in the community team for a couple of months, playing a year up for the pre-development squad, Under-7s. Since then, I have gone through all the teams up to Under-18s, and just kept progressing.
“It’s always a great experience, but the standard is so much higher. Every time you step up, the tempo is faster, everyone is bigger, stronger; it’s just a massive step up. But it’s always a good experience and good to learn.
“You get an involvement, and then you just want the next game after that, to keep being in and around the first team.
“Making my debut was the best thing that could happen. It’s all I wanted to happen. Coming from such a young age, I’ve always looked up to players doing what I am doing, and getting into the first team. I want to follow that path.”
Argyle Director of Football Neil Dewsnip said: "We are delighted that yet another talented young player from our academy is singing his first pro contract.
"Caleb has impressed us with his performances so far at every age group, and we’re hopeful that his journey and progress can be maintained in the near future."
Congratulations to Caleb and his family.
