Derby County hand striker a new contract as club chief says ‘he has a high ceiling’

Latest Derby County news from DerbyshireLive brings you the latest as the Rams have tied down one of their most promising talents

Charles Ebuka Agbawodikeizu has signed his first professional contract with Derby County.

The teenager has put pen to paper on his new deal to commit his long-term future to the club.

The striker made a huge impression in pre-season and scored a fabulous goal in a pre-season friendly against Solihull Moors. He also netted in a subsequent friendly against Walsall.

This followed on from last season’s exploits with the under-18s for whom he scored 15 goals in 14 games in the Premier League North.

He scored three hat-tricks in that campaign with trebles coming against Stoke City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough as Derby finished fourth in the North table.

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After featuring for the club’s under-21s, he was also on the bench in four of the club’s Championship games in March last season.

Upon penning his first professional deal, Agbawodikeizu told the club website: “Signing my first professional contract is a great feeling for me and my family.

“My first season with the Academy gave me a lot of belief and helped me progress my game.

“Being with the First Team and getting those opportunities in pre-season was great. I enjoyed every moment and it gave me a lot of confidence. I can’t wait for the seasons ahead.”

Finding the back of the net at least once in each of his first four matches, he notched hat-tricks against Stoke City, Leeds United and Middlesbrough to help the Under-18s finish fourth in the North table.

Interim Academy Manager, Jamie Smith, said: “We are delighted to secure the long-term future of Charles for the club. This signifies the club’s ambition to retain our Academy talent, and we are extremely pleased that Charles, his family and his representatives see Derby County as the best place to support him in reaching his potential.

“Charles is a powerful, hardworking striker with a high ceiling. This is a significant milestone for him, and we look forward to helping maximise his development.”

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