The Club is pleased to announce that Under-21 trio Luciano D'Auria-Henry, Stefan Parkes and Devan Tanton have all signed new professional contracts.
Luciano D'Auria-Henry
Before picking up an injury which ruled him out for the final stretch of last season, Luciano played a huge part in the success of Steve Wigley's Under-21s. The powerful, pacey wing-back made 19 appearances and grabbed himself three assists in the process. The 20-year-old, who signed for Fulham at the Under-11s stage, quickly became a staple figure and will be hoping to push on even more this coming season.
A delighted Luciano told fulhamfc.com: "I'm so pleased to extend my stay at my boyhood club and I am ready now to kick on! I was eager to stay at Fulham as I’ve been here since the age of 11 and feel at home. I also feel like I have so much still to prove and achieve here so I am really eager and determined to carry on working as hard as possible.
"My aim is to make a good start in pre-season and potentially get out on loan this season, as men’s football is what I now need to take my game to the next level."
Stefan Parkes
Stefan was hindered last season by injury but was an instrumental player for our Under-18s across the two campaigns prior, making over 35 appearances in total.
"I’m really pleased to continue my journey here at Fulham and to continue developing as a player," Parkes said. "I know they’ll push me to improve and I’m excited to see where the season ahead takes me.
"The club continues to show its support and encouragement and, dealing with the setbacks I’ve been dealt with, I really do appreciate that. As much as I want to improve for myself, I would love to do so with the club that’s shown as much patience as they have."
On his aims this season, the 19-year-old added: "I’d love to get a consistent amount of games, performing at the highest level I can throughout the season. I believe that’s when I thrive and display the most growth."
Devan Tanton
Devan only made two appearances after joining the club halfway through the 2020/21 season, but it was the campaign after which really brought out the best of the youngster. The now Colombian international made 20 appearances for the Under-18s across the 21/22 campaign before last season stepping up to the Under-21s.
The 19-year-old made 12 appearances under Steve Wigley and scored his first goal for the club to help our youth side to a dramatic 4-3 win over Tottenham.
Tanton told fulhamfc.com: "I'm delighted to extend my time here at Fulham. I’ve worked hard to continue pushing on each season and to be rewarded with a new commitment feels great.
"Fulham is a big club by reputation, but there is a humility that is maintained at the training ground and it’s quite close-knit so everyone knows each other. I’ve come to feel at home here with how welcoming the staff and players are.
"I’d like to thank my family for their continued support, allowing me to pursue this dream. Also to my agent and coaches that have given me opportunities to keep developing as a player."
Academy Director Sean Cullen added:
"Luciano had an excellent season last year with the Under-21’s, and was a key part of the teams successful return to Premier League 2 Division 1. He enjoys both the in and out of possession demands of a modern full-back. Luciano also played a number of games last season as a centre-half, to further demonstrate his versatility and football IQ.
"Stefan will be eager to hit the ground running this season. The 19-year-old is a very good left-sided defender and is able to play across the back line and he will be determined to show his full range of abilities this season.
"Devan’s 2022/23 season is a perfect example of how every players' journey is different and individual. Devan’s season included a loan spell at Walton & Hersham, international involvement for both the USA and Colombia, before he then forced his way into the Under-21 starting lineup. Devan is an athletic full back, who enjoys getting into the final third and supporting the attack."
