The midfielder has impressed in the absence of Jimmy Bullard and is now set to extend his stay at the Premier League outfit with a new four-year deal. The 19-year-old has produced a string of notable performances since breaking into the first team earlier this season - and his progress has prompted the City boss to offer him a long term deal at the club. "Tom has played very well for us and people are saying he should be the first name on the teamsheet even though he is still a young lad," Brown told supporters at a Fans' Forum. "We are very, very close to signing him on a new four-year contract and that would be great news both for Tom and Hull City." Fellow youngster Liam Cooper has also received the manager's praise and is set for a key role in the final stages of the season. The Hull-born centre-back has had just one chance to impress so far this season - in their 6-1 defeat at Liverpool. But an ankle injury to defender Anthony Gardner could allow the 18-year-old another opportunity to shine in front of the Tigers boss. "Liam Cooper played at Liverpool and he took his chance that day only to be let down by nine other outfield players," Brown said. "Unfortunately he picked up a hand injury off-field after that game, but he has the bit between his teeth and he will play Premier League football between now and the end of the season."
