Two-footed Nigerian attacker reacts after signing first pro deal with Borussia Monchengladbach

Nigerian forward Josiah Uwakhonye has expressed his excitement at taking a significant step in his career after signing his first professional contract with German Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach.

Described as a two-footed attacker, Uwakhonye has committed his future to Borussia Monchengladbach until June 30, 2029.

Uwakhonye, who is capable of operating both on the wings and in a central attacking role, joined Borussia Monchengladbach's academy from SC Union Nettetal in 2015 at the age of seven.

He went on to progress through the club's youth ranks, making a significant impact along the way by scoring 13 goals in 31 competitive appearances for the U17 side and adding 25 goals in 49 matches for the U19 team.

Reacting to his new deal, Uwakhonye posted on Instagram on Saturday: "I’m incredibly grateful to sign my first professional contract with my childhood club.

"I would like to thank every single coworker, team colleague, friends, trainer, @cnsports_ and most of all to my family who are always there for me.

"Looking forward to new challenge and further developments in the coming time. Thank you for your trust."

Uwakhonye featured 16 times for Borussia Monchengladbach’s U23 side in the Regionalliga West last season, finding the net on four occasions.

His progress was interrupted in March when he suffered a lateral ankle ligament tear and a partial syndesmosis ligament injury, forcing him to miss roughly the final third of the campaign.