Academy defender Rio Cardines has signed his first professional contract with the club.
The 18-year-old initially joined the Under-16s in 2022 and has gone from strength to strength progressing up the age groups.
He performed well in 2022/23 for the Under-18s, scoring on debut against Norwich City, recording 18 appearances in total with two goals to his name.
The 2023/24 season saw him continue to progress at U18s level and even make his debut for the Under-21s against Athletic Club in the Premier League International Cup.
Cardines suffered an injury late on in 23/24, concluding the season with a strong 27 appearances in total (23 for the U18s and four for the U21s) with one goal and two assists.
While putting pen to paper, Cardines said: “It’s a great feeling to sign my first professional contract. I’m really happy, proud of myself, it’s been a long journey.”
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