Manchester United confirm new deals for Tyler Blackett and Reece James

Manchester United have committed the long-term future of defenders Tyler Blackett and Reece James to Old Trafford with new deals, the club have confirmed.

Blackett, 20, took advantage of the 2014 summer departures of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic, along with a number of defensive injuries earlier this season, to breakthrough into the first team alongside Paddy McNair.

The defender made his debut in Louis van Gaal's line-up during the first game of the season against Swansea City and has since started a further five games.

And with his old contract at Old Trafford set to expire this summer, United have confirmed Blackett has signed a new deal to commit his future to the club, just weeks after McNair did the same.

"Tyler Blackett has signed a new contract at Manchester United which keeps him at the club until at least June 2017, with an option to extend for a further year," United stated.

"The young English defender, 20, came through the ranks of the Academy system. He has made 10 appearances since his debut against Swansea City on the opening day of this season."

Meanwhile, the manager expressed his joy about the news, claiming the 20-year-old has the potential to become a "great defender" in the future.

"I am delighted that Tyler has signed a new contract. He is another young player that has risen through the Academy system to break into the first-team squad this season. Tyler has great potential and I believe he is at the right club to continue his development and progression to become a great defender," Van Gaal said.

Blackett added: "I'm thrilled to have signed my new contract. I have supported United all my life and have been here since I was eight years old. To come through the Academy and make my debut this season was a dream come true."

"I want to keep improving within the first-team squad with the help of the manager, coaches and the players around me."

Furthermore, United confirmed the deal with James. "[Reece] James has been rewarded for his progress with fresh terms, on the same day that colleague Tyler Blackett's new contract has also been confirmed," the club said.

"The versatile left-back, who can also perform in midfield, scored twice against LA Galaxy in last summer's first-team tour and made his competitive debut in the Capital One Cup against Milton Keynes Dons."