OXFORD United have offered professional contracts to five scholars for next season.
Niall Clayton, Aaron Heap, Albie Hopkins, Dejon Noel-Williams and Matt Berry Hargreaves were all told this morning they would have the chance to graduate from the youth team.
United believe it is a record number of youth team players from a single year to receive contracts.
They join striker Owen James, a first year scholar who was offered professional terms earlier this season.
Providing they go on to sign the deals, the youngsters will have the chance to be part of United’s plans to form an under 23 development side for next season.
Dan Harris, head of academy at United, said: “Whilst it is clearly exciting news for the lads to be extending their time with Oxford United the message remains that they have a lot of hard work ahead of them before they can consider themselves a player.
“All five lads are good characters who I know will work tirelessly to build on this opportunity.
As a result of the decisions, fellow second year scholars Rex Mannings, Graham Bryan, Ben Chilcott, Dan Carr and Nathan Baker will be released.
United’s five rising stars
- Niall Clayton - Goalkeeper
- Aaron Heap - Midfielder
- Albie Hopkins- Winger
- Dejon Noel-Williams - Striker
- Matt Berry-Hargreaves - Centre back
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel