Preston North End have today announced that both Jack Baxter and Ethan Walker have agreed new contracts until the summer of 2022.

Both academy graduates are Preston-born fans of the club and have both shared their excitement about committing to the club for a further two-and-a-half years.

Walker, the 17 year-old who has signed his first senior contract, said: "Signing a professional contract is a massive thing for me.

"Growing up through football, it is all I wanted to do- it is hard to believe it has happened."

Jack Baxter, the 19 year-old midfielder, is keen to repay the managers faith after being handed his new contract.

"It is good that the manager has put his faith in me and it is now my turn to repay him and start showing results, breaking into the team and making an impact.

"It is a good team to come into, with a lot of good players, people you can learn from."

Preston have been in fine form this season and have lifted themselves to second in the Championship, despite being one of the underdogs this campaign, and so far have been a standout side.

Losing only three times in the league this season, Preston are well on their way to a place in the play-offs if the club can maintain their good form.

After beating Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers last weekend, Preston will be full of confidence going into the weekend as they travel to the capital to play an impressive Charlton side on Sunday lunchtime.

The Verdict

The good news continues to come for the Preston fans at the moment; making sure young players are tied down to contracts and promoting the youth are positive signs for the club who are on the rise.

A very impressive campaign so far will make it tougher for the aforementioned players to break into the team, although Alex Neil will need his whole squad throughout the campaign if they want to maintain a play-off/promotion push.

The campaign is still young, and these youngsters could earn their chance.