One on Our Own Cheick Diabate has signed a new deal with the club, as he commits to his future in red and white until the end of the 2023/24 season.
The 21-year-old has had a memorable breakthrough season in the 2021/22 campaign, breaking into the first team and becoming a pivotal part of our promotion winning team.
Diabate made his debut in January and would become unmovable in the Grecians defence, playing 19 times and scoring twice - two bullet headers against Walsall and Leyton Orient, his first two professional goals.
The City faithful quickly warmed to the young centre half, with his name often sung from the Big Bank, and the deal is a rightful reward from Matt Taylor for his excellent defensive displays, desire and growth as a player.
"Off the back of a successful season last year, I'm very happy," Cheick said.
"It feels good to get a new contract and know that I'm going to be here for another two years. I'm going into my fifth year here now, so I'm looking forward to it.
"At the start of last season I was on loan and wasn't sure what was going to happen, but I got given my chance and took it. I'm really happy I broke in, and I'm looking forward to more success.
"I was in the academy for two years and learnt a lot of about the club - and you get to watch the first team play. Hopefully I'm an example to the other academy players of what you can achieve.
"It was an easy decision. Being a young player it's important to be happy and I was happy to do it. This is a great club, the fans are close to the players and there's good vibes across the changing room.
"I love this club a lot. It's a great club to be at."
Hear more from Cheick on his new deal 👇