FABIO Lopes’s work ethic gives him a chance of converting his bright start into a professional career, according to Oxford United first-team coach Shaun Derry.

The 17-year-old has agreed to sign a contract which starts next month and lasts until summer 2021.

Lopes is the fourth youth team player to commit his future to the club in less than two months, following Slavi Spasov, Kyran Lofthouse and Michael Elechi.

The forward, who was born in Lisbon but moved to Bicester in 2015, has made two senior appearances this season.

A knee injury has hampered progress, but while Derry was quick to point out the contract should only be the starting point, he has been impressed with Lopes.

He said: “We’ve had Fabio and one or two others join training and be in and around the squad.

“That’s valuable for them, but they’ve got to knuckle down and keep working hard.

“Just because they’ve signed a form doesn’t entitle them to be a professional footballer.

“You’re always being challenged, but it’s a great start.

“He’s a great kid and he’s got a work ethic that gives him a chance.

“He’s got undoubted ability as well, but it’s going to take time.”

Lopes said: “It’s been unbelievable, playing for the first team and the under 23s. I didn’t think it would be this quick.”

  • OXFORD United’s remaining tickets for the Emirates FA Cup third round tie at Brentford in January have sold out.